A devoted Newcastle United fan lost precious memorabilia signed by Toon legend Alan Shearer when his home was destroyed in a devastating house fire.

Reece Smailes, from Ferryhill, is a familiar face as he is regularly picked out by television cameras in the crowd at Magpies’ games with his top off.

The 31-year-old has NUFC distinctively tattooed on his tummy and often wears a wig or comedy headwear.

But the cable puller and his partner, Paige Barratt are looking for a new home after a chip pan fire at their home on Firwood Terrace on Wednesday.

The Northern Echo: Reece and Paige are looking for a new home after the fire Reece and Paige are looking for a new home after the fire (Image: Contributor)Get more from The Northern Echo and stay informed with a subscription now available on special offer. Click here to find out more.

Reece, who was working away at the time, said: “The chip pan was on and there was a bottle of cleaning fluid next to it.

“The pan has spat and the cleaning fluid has exploded.

“Paige tried to fight the fire at the start but then she had to just get out.”

Paige and Sid, their 14-year-old Patterdale Lakeland cross, escaped but the fire has damaged everything they own.

Among them were pieces of prized football memorabilia, including a signed Shearer number 9 Newcastle top and a boot the Geordie legend wore when he scored against Sunderland.

The Northern Echo: The couple are now looking for a new home The couple are now looking for a new home (Image: Sarah Caldecott)

The Northern Echo: The property was badly damaged in the fire The property was badly damaged in the fire (Image: Sarah Caldecott)But despite being devastated, Reece remains positive and is keeping what has happened in perspective.

He said: “There is nothing left of the house. Everything is black and smoke-damaged. We cannot live there anymore.

“But it could have been far worse.

“As long as everyone is alright I am happy. Everything else can be replaced.

“I have to look at the good side. That is the type of person I am.”

The Northern Echo: Reece is well known for bringing a bit fun to match days Reece is well known for bringing a bit fun to match days (Image: Contributor)Most read:

The Northern Echo: Reece was not insured and now family and friends, as well as fellow Toon Army fans, are rallying around to help them get back on their feet.

An online fundraiser account set up by Cheryl Grimmer has already raised over £3,500.

Reece said: “It has been unbelievable.

“I am shocked with the money that has been raised, totally gobsmacked.

“I did not know I had that many friends.”

To help the couple click here