FRIENDS and neighbours have raised thousands of pounds to help a mother whose houseboat sank.

Emma Frankland’s houseboat home suffered severe damage and capsized when it sank into the mud in the Shoreham estuary last month.

Emma and her four year old son Jowan have been staying with friends and family as they struggle to save their home and belongings.

Emma’s boat sustained huge damage. She said she did the low tide grounded it and subsequent tides then caused it to sink.

She was then told her her insurance would not cover the damage sustained in the accident.

Emma, who has been staying with friends and family, said it has been a very difficult time.

She said: “Losing our home came as a bit of a shock.

“But I have been overwhelmed by the support and kindness of family and friends.

“The generosity of the theatre and arts community has been astonishing, as well as the local riverboat, roller derby and LBGTQ communities.

“I am so grateful for their help in getting me and my son back on track.”

Emma’s brother Keir Cooper appealed for help setting up a JustGiving internet page and in just over a week the family raised more than their initial £2,000 to help replace their belongings and fix the houseboat.

Keir said: “When my sister’s house sank, her belongings were flooded and a lot of work is needed to dry it out and repair and replace essential items.

“It’s really heartening that people have reached out to support my sister at this difficult time. Her home sank but her spirits have been lifted by the stunning network of support around her.”

“There are a lot of people that care about her who have felt moved to support her. The speed at which Emma’s JustGiving page has attracted support has been amazing.”

Keir thanked everyone who has helped Emma and Jowan so far and said they would keep the fund running a bit longer as the repair bills keep mounting.

The family also needs practical help cleaning the mud off their belongings, drying their wet things out and storing items until their home is fixed

They said they also need specialist help repairing the boat’s burner and with carpentry, plumbing, electrical work and painting.

Keir added: “Wow and thank you all.

“What now? We’re seeing if we can get up to £2,700. The damage costs for repair go pretty high and as the page continues to receive donations, we’ll keep it up for a bit longer in case there is more support out there. Anything raised that exceeds repair costs will be redirected to a local charity.”

Visit justgiving.com/crowdfunding/emmas-home-repair