Fundraiser Surpasses £425K for Grieving Father After Tragedy

A devastating house fire on December 26, 2025, in Brimscombe, near Stroud, has left a father mourning the loss of his wife and two children. Tom Shearman, an officer with Gloucestershire Constabulary, has expressed profound gratitude as a GoFundMe campaign established shortly after the tragedy has raised over £426,000 in support.

The fire, which engulfed Shearman’s family home, resulted in the tragic deaths of his wife, Fionnghuala Shearman, known as Nu, and their two children, Eve, age seven, and Ohner, age four. Their family dog, Hutch, also succumbed to the flames. Despite Tom’s desperate attempts to rescue his loved ones, he was forced to retreat due to the unbearable heat and smoke.

Community Rallies to Support Grieving Father

Following the incident, a GoFundMe page was launched on December 27. Within just over a week, donations poured in from various groups, including Minchinhampton RFC, Slimbridge Cygnets Youth Football Club, and the police union, UNISON. The fundraising effort has nearly reached its target of £450,000, with contributions still arriving.

In a heartfelt message shared on New Year’s Day, Tom thanked the community for their overwhelming kindness during this unimaginable time. He reflected on the profound impact of the loss, stating, “Three of the greatest humans to ever grace our presence were taken from not just me, but all of us.”

Tom described the anguish he felt after the tragedy and the support he has received from friends and family. “I have a roof… clothes on my back, food – most importantly company and compassion. I will heal,” he wrote.

Honoring Their Legacies

In his message, Tom expressed a determination to honor the legacies of his family. He plans to ensure that his wife’s creativity and compassion, as well as his children’s joy for reading and empathy for others, continue to thrive.

He poignantly reminded others to cherish their loved ones, citing the words of Paulo Coelho: “One day you will wake up and there won’t be any more time to do the things you want. Do it now.”

In light of the tragedy, floral tributes and messages of sympathy have been placed at the site of the fire. The family has requested that any additional items be directed to Holy Trinity Church in Minchinhampton, rather than left at the scene. All previously placed items at Brimscombe Hill have been respectfully moved to the church as per the family’s wishes.

Tom Shearman’s story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of community support in the face of unimaginable loss. The ongoing fundraising effort reflects the profound connection and compassion within the local community as they rally around a grieving father.