Wear Bright Colours: Funeral to Be Held for Children Killed in Sanson House Fire as Mother Chelsey Field Releases Emotional Statement

The mother of two children killed in a devastating house fire in Sanson has released a moving statement, describing her children as her “absolute world” and asking mourners to honour their memory with bright colours rather than traditional mourning attire.

In the statement, released on Friday morning, Chelsey Field reflected on the lives of her children and the profound bond she shared with them. She said she hoped their deaths would not be the defining aspect of how they were remembered, emphasising instead the joy, curiosity, and love that shaped their lives.

“My babies were my absolute world. I have been a stay-at-home Mum since I had Hugo in 2020,” she said. Before that, Field worked as an early childhood teacher, a role that allowed her to bring her child August to work each day. “I am so glad I got this time with my darlings.”

Field said her children were raised in an environment filled with activity and connection. Their days were shaped by outings, friendships, and shared experiences that she said she would treasure forever.

“I enjoyed so much quality time with them; trips to gymnastics, music groups, playgroups and play dates with friends. We had so much fun together and many holidays away. I will forever cherish all these special memories.”

A Community in Mourning

The house fire, which also claimed the life of the family’s dog, Marlo, has shaken the small community of Sanson. Marlo, a miniature schnauzer who would have turned six this Christmas, had been deeply bonded with the children.

“She was the children’s best friend, and one of Goldie’s first words was ‘dog’,” Field said.

The fire also destroyed the ashes of Field’s stillborn daughter, Iris, compounding the emotional loss.

“Not only did I lose my children and my home that day, but I also lost our beloved miniature schnauzer, Marlo… and the ashes of my stillborn daughter, Iris,” she said. The destruction of the house left what Field described as a second, painful loss of memories and items that could never be replaced.

Honouring Their Lives Through Colour

Field asked that the funeral for her children be a celebration of their lives, not a sombre reflection of their deaths. She requested that attendees wear bright colours, symbolising joy rather than grief.

The gesture reflects what Field described as the spirit of her children—happy, energetic, and full of life. While traditional mourning attire is commonly associated with loss, the request signals her intention to focus on the love her children brought into the world.

The funeral is expected to draw significant attendance as both the local community and those touched by the tragedy seek to show support. Vigils, tributes, and messages of condolence have circulated online in the days following the fire.

Cherishing Memories Amid Irreparable Loss

Field expressed gratitude for the time she had with her children, noting that her years as a stay-at-home parent gave her the privilege of being present for their daily milestones.

She highlighted both ordinary and extraordinary moments—playgroups, holidays, early words, and family routines—as memories she would “forever cherish.” Though the tragedy has left an irreplaceable void, Field said it is the joy of their lives, rather than the pain of their deaths, that she wants to hold on to.

“I will forever cherish all these special memories,” she said.

Community Response and Ongoing Support

In the wake of the fire, support efforts have emerged to help Field in the aftermath of losing her children, her home, and her belongings. Community members have expressed grief and solidarity, though Field has not publicly commented on ongoing support or specific needs.

Authorities have not publicly released full details about the cause of the fire at this time.

A Mother’s Final Words

Field’s statement concludes with a reminder that her children lived happily and were deeply loved, and that this—not the tragedy—should be what remains.

She hopes that by celebrating their lives in colour, those mourning will carry forward the joy they embodied.

“My children were loved beyond measure. That love will continue.”