THE Barter family, who were burned out of their home in Commercial Road, Devizes, last week, have thanked members of the community for the support they have received.

It was the latest tragedy for the family.

Maggie Barter lost her husband Alan early in 2000 and later that year her middle daughter, Gill, was murdered by her long-term partner, Darren Maslen, who is now serving a life sentence.

The house was virtually gutted by last week's blaze and Mrs Barter's youngest daughter Ellen, 21, was asleep in bed when it started.

Her elder sister, Sharon, 31, managed to drag her from the smoke-filled house, but the family pet, Sheba, an 18-month-old black Labrador cross, was overcome with smoke and died.

Ellen Barter said the family wanted to thank everyone who had helped them.

She said: "We really appreciate what the fire fighters and the paramedics did. The firemen helped us get some of our stuff out that had survived the fire and they were so helpful and sympathetic."

Miss Barter was treated at the scene for smoke inhalation by paramedics but did not have to go to hospital, though she is still on a course of antibiotics.

A family friend, Beau Brooks, helped the family move to Sharon Barter's home elsewhere in Devizes.

Ellen Barter said: "We have to thank so many people, we couldn't possible mention them all by name, but they know who they are and we are so grateful to them. Hearing the words "we are here if you need us," means a lot to us."

Sarsen Housing Association and Kennet District Council are working together to find the family accommodation until the house in Commercial Road can be repaired.