A FUNDRAISER aimed at bringing home the body of a Carlisle Utd fan who tragically passed away in France has smashed its target by nearly 500 per cent.
Grant Taylor passed away suddenly while on holiday in Val-d'Isère in France on Thursday, February 24, aged just 22.
As he died overseas, it is necessary for his body to be repatriated to the UK so that the family and friends of Mr Taylor can give him a proper send off.
To support all the relevant costs, a fundraiser was started three days ago to raise money to repatriate Grant's body from France to the United Kingdom.
With a target of £6,000, they have raised £25,000 at the time of writing.
The fundraiser, which was started by George Rosary, reads: "Due to the recent and sudden passing of our friend Grant, all donations will be put towards the repatriation of his body and his funeral.
"We are putting the target as £6,000, however as Grant was a generous, selfless character, if we surpass the target, money raised will be donated to Dementia UK - a charity close to Grant's heart.
"All donations are greatly appreciated."
A long-time supporter of Carlisle United, the team and fans gave a minute-long round of applause for Grant at the match against Leyton Orient on Saturday, February 26.
A spokesperson from Carlisle United wrote on their Twitter page a message of support and condolence: "Sad news this week that season ticket holder Grant Taylor passed away at the age of 22, his family and friends would love a minute of applause in the 22nd minute from the Blue Army at Orient today."
Fans and players in Brunton Park gave a second round of applause to commemorate Grant on Tuesday, March 1.
Government assistance is being provided to help bring Grant home.
A spokesperson from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office said: "We are providing consular assistance to the family of a British man who died in France, and are in contact with the local authorities."
A funeral service will take place on at St Aidans Church on Warwick Road, Carlisle, on Friday, March 11, at 12:00 pm, everyone is welcome but family flowers only are requested.
The dress code is smart, but black is not essential.
The fundraiser is still active; visit the fundraiser site to donate.
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