Man who died in Kirkby Lonsdale fire named locally

A 40-year-old man who died in a major fire in Cumbria has been named locally as Ben Taylor.

Mr. Taylor died inside a property - where the fire is believed to have started - on Main Street in Kirkby Lonsdale last weekend. He was pronounced dead at the scene after his body was recovered from the fire just after 6:30am on 8 December 2024.

One woman from the town said: "It's very sad. The family is a big part of this community, and my thoughts are with them."

A local couple said: "He was very helpful, he was a wonderful person and we're very sorry that he's died."

A man also said: "They're a big family in the town, all my thoughts to his family, it's obviously a very difficult time."

The local community at the time were told to keep doors and windows closed whilst Cumbria Police and other emergency services dealt with the incident.

The town's Christmas market, which was due to take place on Sunday, was also cancelled.

A GoFundMe page organised by Kirkby Lonsdale Rugby Union Football Club has also raised more than £13,000 to support Jakob, a player for the club, who has lost his Cumbrian home from the major fire on 8 December 2024.

Jakob, from New Zealand, has lost "every possession". Brian Gregory, organiser of the fundraiser and chairman of the rugby club, said: "He now needs our community to support him. Even a few pounds can help him start to rebuild his life, and show that in Kirkby Lonsdale and in the wider rugby community no one stands alone.

"Thank you for bringing some hope and comfort to a grieving community."

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