A GRANDMOTHER broke down in tears as she told how neighbours and family rallied to help after a fire left her with nothing but the clothes she was wearing.

A fortnight ago, Maria Cossins's home in Eaglescliffe, Teesside, was gutted in the blaze, which swept through the house destroying 30 years of memories.

Twenty-one months earlier, Mrs Cossins's husband, Ray, died after being taken ill with cirrhosis of the liver.

Two weeks later, their daughter, Maria, died after suffering a thrombosis following her giving birth to a daughter, Collette.

She said: "I was at rock-bottom when I lost Ray and Maria, and thought that was as bad as it could get. I went through hell and back.

"However, I had to get back on my feet as I had Maria's three children to look after and I was their only carer. We were managing to do that and then this happens.

"It is hard and I keep asking 'why me?' I lost everything.

"I was keeping a memory box for the kids with lots of their mum's belongings in it, but that has gone.

"That is one of the hardest things; losing photographs and just little bits and pieces that cannot be replaced."

Since the fire, neighbours have rallied to help Mrs Cossins, donating bedding, children's toys, clothes and furniture.

The 47-year-old said: "I am so overwhelmed. Everyone has given me a little something. It is amazing how kind people are. It has restored my faith.

"I am staying with my daughter Caroline at the moment, and she has been marvellous. She has her own family, but she has managed to find room for me and the three children.

"My son Ian has also been my rock, but strangers have given me little things and there are no words I can say to these people. Thank you just does not seem enough."

Despite working tirelessly, the family are in need of a new roof before they can move back in, and are hoping they can return home soon.

Investigations are continuing to determine the cause of the blaze.