The owner of a Lanarkshire butchershop that went up in flames in an apparent gas blast last week, has thanked her community for their support.
Ann Davidson, owner of Ann Davidson Butchers in Strathaven, is currently in the Glasgow Royal Infirmary receiving treatment to burns following the horrific blaze at her shop last Thursday night.
Locals recalled hearing a huge "explosion" and then witnessed Ann's Green Street shop, as well as neighbouring premises and upstairs flats, go up in flames just before midnight.
Three people were rushed to hospital requiring treatment, including butcher Ann who has since asked for help in re-establishing her popular business in the town from her hospital bed.
A Facebook post from friend Les Hoggan read: "This post is on behalf of Ann Davidson.
"Ann phoned me from hospital and is very grateful for all the messages she has received since the fire last Thursday.
"She is also keen to look at how she can re-establish and asks if anyone knows of suitable premises that are available, that would allow her to make a fresh start in Strathaven whilst the Green Street premises are assessed, to send me a message and I will pass on contact details for Ann.
"Thank you in advance for your help."
Large parts of Strathaven were closed off on Friday and into the weekend following the fire that left locals "shocked" and "saddened".
Other businesses in the street and those directly affected, including Barbers at No.11 and Strathaven Flower Shop, are still sadly closed - it is not yet known when they can return to their premises to assess the damage.
Laura Thomson of Strathaven Flower Shop told Lanarkshire Live : "Strathaven is a fabulous town to live and work, with a huge sense of community.
"We are so lucky to have so many independent shops trading here.
"It was with great shock and sadness I discovered what happened via Facebook in the early hours of Friday morning.
"I was so sorry to hear that Ann Davidson and a member of her staff had been injured in the blaze, to what extent I still don’t know, but my very best wishes for a speedy recovery go out to her and her family.
"I have not yet had access to my shop which is directly next door to the butchers so I’m not sure how damaged my property is.
"I really hope to be back working in my lovely flower shop again soon but only time will tell how long that may take.
"I’ve been overwhelmed by the numerous kind messages I’ve received from customers and locals with offers of help and good wishes. It means so much at a time like this.
"I am so grateful to be part of such a fabulous community."
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