Neighbours, friends, and complete strangers have rallied round to give a ‘proper funeral’ to a man who collapsed and died while confronting youths who had been tormenting him for decades.

David Askew, 64, who had learning difficulties, died outside the home he shared with his mother.

Rose Askew, 89, told friends she did not have enough money to give her son a decent funeral.

Mrs Askew, of Melandra Crescent, Hattersley, is a respected member of the Hattersley community who co-founded the Money Spinner Credit Union to drive out loan sharks. A fund-raising drive has now been set up to raise £3,000.

Rose’s friend Georgina Skelly, 49, said: “Rose is worried about getting the money together for a proper funeral. She should be able to get a grant and I’ve opened an account for her and everybody is putting in a few pence or pounds. There are donation boxes in shops and people are knocking on doors raising money.

“Rose keeps saying she expects David to come through the door. She really wanted him to be here for her 90th birthday in January.”

Anyone who wants to help with the fund-raising should call the credit union on 368 0894.