A fundraiser launched following the death of a 42-year-old Oldham mother in a house fire has reached more than £10,000.

The fundraiser, organised by Afruz Miah BEM, reached more than £6,000 in its first day.

Sadia Shafiq died in a house fire on Saint Thomas Street, in Werneth, on June 24.

Afruz says the fundraiser aims to support Sadia’s three children, two sons aged 17 and 21, and her 15-year-old daughter.

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An inquest was opened into the death of Sadia at Rochdale Coroners Court on July 5.

A book of condolence is available to sign on The Oldham Times website.

Sadia’s 15-year-old daughter was taken to hospital in a critical condition following the incident.

Sadia’s family have paid tribute to the ‘kind and caring’ mother, and have asked for privacy while they grieve.

Fundraising events include an 85km bike ride from Oldham to Halifax and back via canal paths, a half marathon, a car wash event, and a walk from Oldham via Hollins Road fire station and a fire station in Manchester.

Afruz, an experienced fundraiser known as Oldham’s ‘running man’, recalled seeing the plumes of black smoke as he drove past the building last month, with one of his friends living just a few doors down from the house.

He wants the money to support Sadia’s children, and hopes that the fundraiser will smash the £20,000 target.

The Oldham Times: Afruz MiahAfruz Miah (Image: Global Relief Trust)

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He said: “The aim of fundraising is to help rebuild their lives and help them continue with their education. Contributions will go directly towards providing them with a safe and stable living environment ensuring they have access to essentials.

“We support families and communities abroad when a humanitarian catastrophe strikes but this time we need to respond rapidly and do our bit as the incident happened on our doorstep.

“I was contacted by Mohammed Naveed to discuss ways we can support the children during these testing times. We met with the family members and were given the green light to go ahead.

“Our target is to raise enough funds to give the children peace of mind so they can continue living without having to worry about financial problems.”