Readers of The Argus have rallied round a family whose home was badly damaged by fire just days before Christmas.

Support, gifts and donations have been offered to Jack Savage and his family after the blaze at their home in Toronto Terrace, Brighton.

Twelve-year-old Jack’s room was severely damaged, destroying virtually all of his possessions.

Jack, a pupil at Dorothy Stringer School in Stringer Way, Brighton, crawled through thick smoke to reach the door of his home before making it outside.

Jack, his eight-year-old sister Eve, his mother Lucy Moran, 45, and step-father Tony Dain all escaped uninjured.

Mr Dain told how Jack was especially disappointed because his PlayStation games console was destroyed.

Although the family did not make an appeal for help, The Argus has been inundated with calls offering help and support.

Christine Berdmane, 29, of Hollingbury Place, Brighton, said: “After I read the story I felt terrible for the family. This shouldn’t happen at Christmas.

“I really want to donate £30 and make Jack and Eve’s Christmas better.”

Linda Roe, 57, of Hollingdean, said: “I wanted to give money to the family. I wouldn’t wish this on anyone, especially not so close to Christmas. It is a real shame.”

Meanwhile Simon Hardman said: “I have a PlayStation 3 that I’m happy to give to the boy in the fire. It’s not new but works.”

Mr Dain, 37, said: “Wow. We are really grateful for everyone’s support. It is so nice."

Firefighters believe the blaze at 3.30am on Sunday was caused by a tea light candle.

Leave your messages of support to the family below.