Fundraising appeal for Ashleigh Charlesworth hits target after burns horror at Kings Head in Great Cornard

A fundraising appeal for one of two cousins who suffered horrific burns after a heater exploded has already exceeded its target.

April Charlesworth was celebrating her birthday with cousin Ashleigh at the Kings Head in Great Cornard, near Sudbury, when the accident happened.

Reports claim the heater exploded after a drunk man added ethanol to it 'for a laugh.'

Both victims were taken to Queen Victoria Hospital in London for emergency treatment.

April, 28, from Sudbury, said she was saved from further harm after a member of the public doused the flames by throwing wine over her. Her whole head remains covered in bandages and she said: "All I remember was my face being on fire."

Meanwhile a fundraising appeal for Ashleigh set up by relatives has already raised £3,565 of its original £3,500 goal.

Sister Stacey wrote: "As some of you may know my sister Ashleigh was innocently involved in an horrific accident last weekend which has left her with potentially life-changing injuries. As a family we have decided to set up this fundraiser to help her while she is recovering.

"To those of you who don’t know Ashleigh we appreciate you reading this. Ashleigh is a trained NHS professional, she has worked all through the pandemic and has also been helping to administer Covid vaccines.

"Ashleigh has a long road ahead of her in regards to her recovery both physically and mentally.

"Hopefully by pulling together as a community we can help to alleviate any more financial pressures she may be faced with while being out of work. Therefore she can focus all the energy on her recovery."

The Kings Head was closed following the incident. A message posted on its Facebook page said: "The appliance was not one supplied by the pub but was brought onto the premises without our knowledge.

"Our focus is on supporting the enquiry that is taking place while keeping them, and their families, at the forefront of our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time."