Family’s shock as home is wrecked by lightning
"We were just coming to the end of 12 months of renovations and it has all gone up in smoke. I am truly devastated. What was the point?
"I know we were very lucky to get out and when I think back to when we slept in that room during decorating it makes my blood run cold.
"I don't think the full extent of what has happened has sunk in yet."
Fire crews from Southport spent over three hours tackling the blaze to bring it under control.
Safety officials arrived at the house in Water Lane later yesterday to demolish the chimney, which was declared unsafe.
The family have been staying with neighbours until they can find some temporary accommodation nearby so they don't disrupt Lee's schooling.
According to his father, Lee found the whole experience quite exciting as he loves fire engines.
The youngster even went straight to school following his narrow escape yesterday because the school were going on a school trip and he did not want to miss out.
Mr Thompson added: "He is only worried about his toys.”
