A POPULAR member of staff from Mitsubishi Motors UK in Cirencester who passed away, has been honoured by his colleagues who raised money to support the hospice that looked after him.

More than £15,000 has been raised for the Prospect Hospice in Wroughton, near Swindon, that cared for Danny Wellsteed during the final four weeks of his life.

Danny worked in the warehouse at Watermoor for 18 years and lost his battle with cancer at the age of 47 on June 1, seven weeks after being told he was terminally ill.

His wife Anita and colleague Kevin Smith originally set out to raise £500 each for Prospect Hospice.

Kevin gave up alcohol for June and he and his colleagues at Mitsubishi organised a sponsored walk, while Anita raised money by shaving her head.

With Mitsubishi Motors UK and Finance Mitsubishi both pledging to match the money raised, it meant the total reached £15,627.58.

Anita, 47, of Park South, Swindon, said: “When Danny went to the hospice we were told he had a couple of days, so to have four weeks was so precious.

“The people there are earth angels. Nothing was too much trouble for them.

“Danny always thought of others first. He would do anything for anybody and he wanted us to raise money for the hospice.

“He said £50 or £100, so I know he would be ecstatic at the amount raised. He would be very proud of Kev and all his workmates. Mitsubishi was like a family to him.”

Danny was a big fan of Gloucester Rugby and would attend matches with Kevin and other colleagues. Kevin said: “I can’t believe people’s generosity.

“It just shows Danny was a popular lad and people thought well of him. We can’t thank people enough for the money. To raise more than £15,000 is beyond belief.”

Mela Durston, Fundraiser at Prospect Hospice, said: “We are absolutely delighted with the amount Danny’s family and friends have raised.

“Even they have been surprised by the amount they have raised, having surpassed their target by a long way, and they should be proud.

“It’s a fantastic donation, which we will put to good use.”