A newsagent was left devastated after a fire "totally gutted" her shop.
Lisa Giffen has owned Archie's in Kirkintilloch for 12 years. Selling snacks, newspapers and food, she became a go-to spot in the town.
Taking her role as a community hub seriously, the 48-year-old also supports local pensioners, those in need and children.
On Monday, she was in the middle of organising Christmas donations at the Old Duntiblae Road site with her daughter Brooke when tragedy struck.
She said: "We were in the shop and we heard a bang. The fire just went up so quickly, all we had time to do was run out.
"All I could think of was to quickly get out. It's a tiny shop, there was no point in going back.
"We phoned the fire brigade and luckily we were both fine, just very upset.
"I'm heartbroken, I don't even know what to think, I can't sleep."
Following a prompt 999 response, the fire was put out but the convenience store was sadly destroyed.
The mother-of-five said: "It's totally gutted inside. There was nothing salvageable.
"I think the building needs a new roof, inside everything needs to be replaced, there is nothing I can keep.
"Now, I'm waiting for the insurance to come and access it.
"I just want to get it back up and open again, I love that shop."
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Originally from Belfast, the shopkeeper takes her role as a pillar of the community very seriously and has always believed in helping others.
She said: "We did a lot through lockdown. We provided free meals for kids and the elderly.
"We also had plans for a Santa's grotto and had 200 selection boxes we were going to give away but those were destroyed too.
"We only got to do one night and then this happened."
The devastating incident shook the community, inspiring them to start an online fundraiser to support the family business.
Started by Lisa's niece, the collection has almost already reached the target of £2500 and shows no signs of slowing down.
She said: "I couldn't believe it. Honestly, at first, I felt quite embarrassed. I can't believe what it has raised so far, I'm overwhelmed.
"I have never not worked in my life. I woke up on Tuesday and I had no work to go to.
"I have kids, a mortgage, bills. I lost my livelihood, it's gone."
To contribute to the fundraiser, visit here.
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