Police officer who lost his family in Stroud housefire on Boxing Day pays tribute

A Gloucestershire police officer who lost his wife, two children and their dog in a house fire in Stroud on Boxing Day, has shared his gratitude for the support he has received and expressed his grief for his family.

Tom Shearman’s wife Nu, their children Eve and Ohner, and their dog Hutch all died following the fire at their home on Brimscombe Hill.

A GoFundMe page was created to help support Tom, and speaking about the donations, he said he is "humbled beyond comprehension".

"I have no way to thank any of you for the unbelievable out-of-this-world generosity that you have shown me in the darkest of hours," Tom said.

Tom also reflected on the loss of his loved ones.

"My life, the lives of my loved ones, my friends and the whole community changed on Boxing Day. Most importantly, and tragically, three of the greatest humans to ever grace our presence were taken from not just me, but all of us."

He urged people to treasure their loved ones, saying: "Please all take every opportunity to hug your loved ones, tell them you love them.”

Tom paid tribute to his wife and children, indicating that he was already planning ways to continue their legacy.

"I WILL make sure my unbelievably talented, empathetic, compassionate and beautiful wife's legacy of craft, design and making lives on. As will I ensure that my bright spark Eve's legacy of enjoyment from books and writing be carried on, along with my incredible son's sheer compassion and desire to help people."

Floral tributes and messages of condolence have been left at the location of the fire, but the family has requested that future tributes be taken to Holy Trinity Church, Minchinhampton.

Anything left at Brimscombe Hill has already safely been moved to the church at the family’s request.

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