A ELDERLY woman has been left shaken after fireworks were posted through her letterbox in the middle of the night.

Firefighters were called to a property in Overdale Road, Chesham, at 12:40am on Monday (October 10).

Bucks Fire and Rescue Service said: "A considerable amount of damage was caused to a two-storey terraced house".

Police launched a criminal investigation and want to hear from any residents that have CCTV. 

READ MORE: Police investigate late-night fire at elderly resident's home

The woman, named locally as Miriam, was given emergency care after suffering breathing difficulties from the smoke.

Paula Western, who used to live next door to the resident, has set up a fundraising plea after her fireworks "destroyed part of her home".

She said: "It's very upsetting to know that someone can do that to an elderly lady living on her own, she was very frightened and thought she wouldn't be able to get out. It happened just after midnight.

"I'm trying to raise some money via a just giving page as I thought it would be nice to raise some money for her so she can treat herself to something nice or replace items that were destroyed.

"Miriam is such a lovely lady. I used to live next door to her many years ago."

Paula said the woman's front door is all boarded up after fireworks blew it off.

Carpet and rugs have also been damaged.

She has surpassed her fundraising target of £200, with kind members of the public donating to help the lady.

Elaine Ainsworth commented: "Community spirit for those less fortunate and tragic circumstances because of thoughtless people."

Leona said: "Shocking to hear this. Wishing Miriam well."

Sian added: "I do hope you recover soon from this ordeal, Miriam." 

Visit https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/paula-western-20?utm_term=gDmEnJykq to donate.