Fire fighters were called to a property on Market Hill just after 03:00 yesterday, where a blaze had broken out in the middle flat.

The building had already evacuated and firefighters wearing breathing apparatus quickly brought the fire under control.

However, a cat belonging to a retired couple living in the top flat died, and their other cat was treated at the vets. 

The parish of St. Brelade said it would help to find temporary accommodation for the couple, and a single person in their 50s who was also affected.

St. Brelade Deputy Montfort Tadier has since set up a fundraiser for those affected by the blaze with a fundraising target of £3,000.

“I am sure that our hearts go out to the people who have been made homeless as a result of the fire last night at St. Aubin,” he said. 

“It would be great if we could, as a community, do a little something to make their Christmas a little better.”

Despite only being launched last night, the JustGiving page has already received donations of more than £1,200.

Many islanders have also left messages of goodwill on the fundraising page, with one individual commenting: “It is such an awful thing to happen, I hope this helps a little bit.”

Another added: “Bad news especially at this time of year.Good luck with coping now and in the future.” 

CLICK HERE to donate.