A DAD from Tetbury who was diagnosed with terminal cancer has passed away, aged 28.

Fran Eddolls was diagnosed with an incurable brain tumour and was given three months to live back in April.

He died on Monday evening.

Tributes have been pouring in for the inspirational father-of-two, whose story has touched not just his family and friends, but the entire Tetbury community and beyond.

Fran was a hugely popular member of the community and was an avid sportsman. Although often seen on his bike, he also competed for local football clubs Tetbury Town and Avonvale United over a number of seasons.

Over the years Fran raised thousands of pounds for various charities through cycling challenges, and the community united to support him in his time of need by donating to help his family.

Friends and relatives raised almost £16,000 in just a matter of days following Fran’s diagnosis by taking part in Le Tour De Fran, with the money going to Fran, his wife Carina and their children Holly, aged four, and two-year-old Archie, so they could make the most of the time they had left as a family.

Cyclists, runners, walkers and others all took part with the goal of covering 1,000 miles or more, the distance of ‘LeJoG’ – Lands End to John O’Groats – which Fran planned to ride this September to raise money for Anxiety UK.

A total of 813 people completed one or more activities across eight countries around the world, with all participants keeping within the government guidelines.

And those taking part collectively smashed the target of covering 1,000 miles, racking up 24,799 miles, that’s more than all the way around the world.

By the end of the event, more than £35,000 was raised.

To remember popular Fran, friends are planning a balloon release at Preston Park, on Cirencester Road, Tetbury, on Monday night - on what would have been his 29th birthday, Anyone is welcome to attend the event which is set to take place at 7pm.

The balloons are biodegradable, and social distancing measures will be required.

To make sure there are enough balloons, please join the Le Tour De Fran Facebook group and confirm your attendance - www.facebook.com/groups/218499479575440