The roof of the house was destroyed in the fire

House-to-house collections have been held in streets around Old Castle Road in Llanelli where the blaze occurred.

Anya Evans, 15 and sister Kira, 14, who lived at the house and friends Kimberly Patterson, 15, and Nadine Fardon, 14, are still in a "critical" condition.

Their families said they had been "overwhelmed" by the public's response.

More than �700 has been raised so far with a large contribution from traders and shoppers in Llanelli's indoor market.

Collection points have been set up in the town along with a bank account.

One the appeal organisers, Christine Clark, said: "They are going to need a lot as they have lost everything.

"It's an horrific thing that has happened to the community and everyone has been really supportive.

We have drawn a great deal of strength from knowing so many people are thinking about the girls Families' statement

"I did not know them to talk to but knew the girls by sight

"We have raised over �700 so far and have opened a bank account. There are collection boxes in the Avenue Villa Surgery and the Llanelli Star offices.

"The majority will go the family that has lost everything - one of the others (houses) lost a lot so we hope to give them a small amount as well."

Mrs Clark said an account had been opened under the name Old Castle Road Fire Appeal at the town's HSBC bank.

A joint police and fire brigade investigation into its cause, which is not being treated as suspicious, is continuing.

Total strangers

Their families have also spoken of the overwhelming support they have received from friends and strangers since the blaze on Monday.

Many of the girls' school friends have been in touch, texting, phoning and sending messages, a spokeswoman for Morriston Hospital said.

In a joint statement, the families said: "Total strangers have also taken the time to let the families know they are thinking about them and wishing the girls well."

"We have been overwhelmed by the hundreds of messages of support we have received.

"It is a very anxious and awful time for us, and we have drawn a great deal of strength from knowing so many people are thinking about the girls and wishing them a speedy recovery.

"We want to give a heartfelt thank you for all the kind words, cards, gifts and offers of help from family, friends, neighbours and strangers alike.

"And a very big thank you to all the children who have been texting, phoning and sending get well messages to Anya, Kira, Nadine and Kimberley."

Doctors said at least one of the teenagers, and probably more, would remain in Morriston Hospital, Swansea for some time and would need extensive surgery.