A heartfelt campaign has been launched for a couple whose home was devastated in an inferno which killed their dogs.

Fire crews were called to Carol and Ken Charles’ home in Millmead Road, Margate, in the early hours of May 16.

Six fire engines arrived at the scene at 2.30am, but the operation was extended to nine fire engines as the blaze intensified.

At the time, residents were warned to keep windows and doors closed while firefighters tackled the flames.

This advice was lifted just before 7am, when the fire service confirmed operations were complete.

The fire service confirmed two people required treatment from paramedics due to smoke inhalation. They were later taken to hospital.

Now, the pair’s niece Rebecca Wright has set up a Gofundme to help the couple going forward.

She said: “They have nothing left, just the pyjamas they managed to escape in.

“Ken woke up in the early hours of the morning to find the house full of smoke.

“He managed to get Carol out of the house before trying to return for the dogs but unfortunately the smoke was too much and he couldn't manage to reach them.”

The couple’s pet Shih Tzu dogs, Rosie and Daisy, died in their sleep.

Rebecca said: “Carol and Ken met and began building their life together.

“After getting married in 1972 and finding their dream home, they built memories and a life together over the span of 53 years, sharing their home with animals that became their children.”

“Their dogs were their children and their life revolved around them,” she added.

“Rosie and Daisy were not just dogs to them, they were Carol and Ken’s babies – their life and their reason for living.

“They have not only lost their family but also meaningful items to them. Ken is a massive Star Trek fan, he collected a lot of memorabilia over the years.

“He would spend time in the work room alongside Carol making various crafts for their garden, and now everything has gone.

“Photos, memories, and special items that have meaning from family members and friends who are no longer here, even wedding photos. Things they cant replace.”

The couple is currently living in a hotel. Donations can be made here.

“Anything you can give will help Carol and Ken massively to start over”, Rebecca added.