A family who lost everything when their home was gutted by fire have been overwhelmed by gifts of toys, clothes and money.

Villagers who live near the family in Headcorn, local firefighters and KM readers have given generously to help out the Nash family, who were lucky to escape with their lives.

Dad David Nash, 46, whose two children were rescued from the inferno at their semi-detached home in Knaves Acre, Headcorn, said: “The response has been unbelievable. I am overwhelmed and humbled and I cannot thank people enough.

“I have even had elderly people in the village coming up to me and saying 'here’s a fiver, go and buy the children some sweets’. I feel proud to live in Headcorn.”

The near-tragedy happened on February 22, while Mr Nash was out.

His wife Dawn was in the house and managed to get out. Neighbours risked their lives to rescue Kristian, six, and Emma, four, from their first-floor bedroom.

Apart from some photo albums and Mr Nash’s twisted car keys they lost everything in the fire and have been staying in an hotel.

Neighbours Sue Mangold and Kate Cartlidge immediately sprang into action and launched an emergency appeal for toys and clothes for the children.

Mrs Mangold said: “We have been inundated with donations. Someone even gave us a bicycle for Emma and firefighters turned up in a fire engine to deliver some toys. We would like to say a big thank you to everyone.”

Mr Nash said he and his children are hoping to move into a rented house in Knaves Acre this weekend.

It has not yet known how the fire started but police are not treating it as suspicious.

Mrs Nash, who was arrested on a related matter, is on police bail until March 12 and staying with relatives.