We were so thrilled to have the opportunity to get the family together to celebrate David’s life (at the Manchester Midnight Walk) and do something worthwhile for the Hospice. We loved the chance to light a candle and write a special message in memory of David half way round the walk.Anita Thomas

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Raising money in memory of ‘Big Dave’ – always loved, never forgotten

The family of Big Dave Thomas have paid a lasting tribute to his memory – raising money for St Ann’s Hospice who cared so well for the 29 year old in his final days.

Dave, who died from bowel cancer, left a special legacy – an unborn baby daughter he named Bailey.

Mum Anita, says: “David was not a flower person so we decided to raise money for the hospice for being so good with him in his last two weeks of life.”

David was diagnosed with cancer four years ago but continued to live life to the full. He was a keen quad biker and was well known for karaoke.

Before he died he made a CD of songs he loved and these went on sale to boost the fund raising total.

During treatment, David was told he would never become a father and he and Cheryl decided to try IVF, but against all odds she conceived naturally.

Dave – who was 6ft 3in and 19 stone – saw a video scan of his little daughter while he was in the hospice and decided on her name.

Anita says: “Because the hospice was so good to him we decided to do something in return. On the day of the funeral at St George’s Church, Tyldesley, we raised £1,800, then followed with a tribute night which raised £1,700 and his aunts and uncles organised a marathon darts match which added a further £1,200.”

Anita and a big group of Dave’s family and friends also took part in the Manchester Midnight Walk.