A HEARTBROKEN daughter has thanked the kindness of strangers who collected thousands of pounds to pay for her father’s funeral.

Adelle Leaver was left distraught following the sudden death of her dad, Malcolm, who died last month at the age of 55.

A Go Fund Me page was created to pay £4,000 to cover the cost of the service and the target was achieved in days.

Ahead of the burial at his hometown of Barrow later this week, Adelle, a practice manager at Bupa in Dalston, near Carlisle, has paid tribute to her amazing dad.

The 29-year-old said: “I’d like to thank the kindness of people who donated, from the bottom of my heart, I’m truly grateful.

“I was unsure about setting up the online fundraiser at first, but the reactions from those who knew him and total strangers has been lovely.

“It has brought out the best in people I know and friends have shared their happy memories of him.

“Sadly in the last five years, he had two serious incidents - one of which ended in intensive care for 12 weeks at a hospital in Preston.”

His injuries left him unable to work since.

“At the moment, his death is still unexplained,” Adelle added.

Mr Leaver worked as a builder and joiner in Barrow for more than 30 years, and was a dedicated supporter of Barrow AFC.

News of his death shocked the football club, who also joined in the bid to raise funds to give their ‘devoted fan’ a fitting send-off.

Following the service, which will take place in the town on Friday morning, a wake will be held at the club at 10.45am.

A spokesman from Barrow AFC added: “All at Barrow AFC were saddened to hear of the passing of dedicated Bluebirds support Malcolm ‘Malla’ Leaver.

“Malla was as loyal as they come to the BAFC cause and travelled the length and breadth of the country following the team, even during times of ill health. He was a season ticket holder for more than 25 years.”

Malcolm is survived through five children, including Adelle.

n A funeral to celebrate his life will take place at St George’s Church in Barrow at 9.45am on Friday.