Just over €25,000 has been raised so far to support a family in Inistioge, Co. Kilkenny after a fire destroyed two businesses on their property.

The fire broke out on Friday night, October 4, continuing for about 40 minutes, according to locals. It resulted in the loss and damage of machinery, tools, and sheds for both businesses.

Gardaí and emergency services attended the scene at approximately 12:30a.m on October 5. They reported no injuries and no offenses have been disclosed.

Dermot Prendergast is a local contractor who has built up and provided services to local and neighbouring farm businesses for over 30 years.

His son, John Prendergast, had set up his own mechanic business adjacent to his father’s on their family farm for about two or three years now, while also being involved in the contracting enterprise.

Following the fire on the Kilkenny farm, funds are being raised by members of the community in Inistioge to help the family rebuild and recover the businesses.

The GoFundMe page reads: "Dermot and John are great community men, and to help get these businesses back up and running, this is a way for those who have reached out to donate as they recover from this event.

"Please show your support and help this family get back on their feet and their businesses back up and running."

Donations are continuing online and the funds that are raised will go directly to the Prendergast family.

Meanwhile, Kilkenny Fire Department will be holding a 'prevention night' tomorrow (Tuesday, October 8) from 5:00p.m until 7:00p.m at Kilkenny Fire Hall. Attendees will be given the chance to learn about fire safety.