FRIENDS and family have raised thousands to pay for the funeral of a man who died in a tragic accident.

Westley Robinson of Canvey sadly passed away following a “freak accident” and since his death, the people he knew and loved have pulled together to raise £4,200 to pay for his funeral.

The JustGiving page, set up by Tom Appleton, was launched on Sunday, May 20, and is already well on its way to the target of £5,500.

The page in memory of Westley is intended to “give him the best send off, which he deserves”.

Tom’s post on the JustGiving page, said: “For everyone who knew Wes, they will always think of the kindest and most genuine person he was personally a close friend of mine.

“I would just like to help his family and I’m sure all of his friends would also like to help his family with costs for the funeral so he can have the best send off.”

Donations have flooded in to fund Westley’s funeral.

Family and friends have individually given hundreds to reach the fundraising target, and they have paid tribute to Westley on the JustGiving page, following his sad death.

One contributor, Stephen Liles, said: “In life you get the opportunity to meet people like Wes that just have that ability to put a smile on everyone’s face. I just cannot take this in, rest in peace Wes, you amazing man.”

Brothers, Luke and Jake Hayes left £500 to the fund.

They said: “He was a kind hearted, genuine and lovely bloke who will be sorely missed by everyone who had the fortune to call him a friend.

“Our thoughts are with all Wes’s friends and family.”

Karen and David Lodge, who also donated £500, added: “We cannot believe we are doing this, it was an absolute honour to know you Wes, a true gent.

“Sleep tight my friend, we will never forget you.”

The Echo has been unable to confirm the exact cause of Westley’s death - or the date of his funeral.

If you would be able to give anything in donation to make Westley’s send off as special as can be, go to: www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/tom-appleton and please support.