Thousands of pounds have been raised for a bonsai tree specialists in Surbiton after a fire burnt down most of their facilities and trees.

Last Thursday evening (July 16), a devastating fire burnt down most of the trees and equipment at the Bonsai Shed site in Surbiton.

The Bonsai Shed have grown a dedicated clientele since Founder Andy first cultivated his passion for the remarkable Japanese trees back in 2006.

The shed regularly welcomes fellow enthusiasts and hobbyists to discover about and share tips on all things bonsai.

Surrey Comet: Bonsai enthusiasts gather at the shed, which was devastated by a recent fire. Bonsai enthusiasts gather at the shed, which was devastated by a recent fire.

It is dubbed a "haven away from city life where the ancient art of bonsai is celebrated and shared with so many different people," by Josh Shahrum-Smith, who started the fundraiser after the fire.

Josh described on the page how the fire hit the shed on July 16, causing untold damage, as a statement on the organization's website confirmed:

"We have suffered a massive fire at the shed and lost most of our specimen trees and stock," the announcement reads.

"Obviously the shed won’t be operations for at least 2 weeks. Until we have cleared and made safe the structures, please beaver with us well," it continues.

Surrey Comet: Most of the bonsai trees on site were burnt to cinders during the fireMost of the bonsai trees on site were burnt to cinders during the fire

Since the fire, a remarkable amount of support has poured in to help the Bonsai Shed get back on its feet.

By Monday (July 16), some £2,734 had been raised so far, with £4,000 Josh's initial target.

"Many have benefitted greatly from Andy’s kindness and generosity, but, now is a time when the community can offer something back," Josh said.

"As a small way of repaying all of his advice and hard work we have set up this page to help with any costs incurred by this catastrophic event."

To read more or donate, click here.