A FUNDRAISING appeal has been launched in support of Radcliffe Carnival chairman Andrew Clarkson, who suffered a heart attack at the weekend.

The 60-year-old was taken ill as the carnival was closing up on Saturday night and remains in hospital, awaiting surgery.

Friends have now set up an online fundraising page to ensure that the driving instructor, who has also served as president of the Radcliffe and Whitefield Lions branch, has the support he needs once he is well enough to return home.

Cllr Rhyse Cathcart, who saw the appeal raise hundreds of pounds in its first 24 hours, said: "I wanted to try and make sure that there is enough support for him when he gets out of hospital.

"He is self-employed and looks after his sister Gillian, who has learning disabilities and is no longer able to work herself due her condition, and does this while wrestling with his own health problems.

"For the past four years, Andrew has headed up a team of dedicated community volunteers to hold what is Radcliffe's busiest event of the year.

"Andrew's passion for the town is second to none and over the years he has raised thousands of pounds for local groups, charities and individuals.

"He is a proud man but he is in desperate need of support from the community to ensure that he does not lose his and Gillian's home and that his home is fit for purpose when he is able to return to it.

"If you can give any amount to help out so that we can make sure that Andrew is able to recover without any added stresses that would be the best gift we could give him.

"The money will be used to pay Andrew's and Gillian's rent, living costs and also to help carry our repairs and cleaning as the house is in need of modernisation and potentially some living aids.

"Any proceeds left over will be donated back to a charity of Andrew's choice to ensure that others can continue to get help."

Claire Taylor, carnival committee member, added: "Andrew does so much for the Radcliffe community and now it's our turn to repay a bit of that and support him in his time of need.

"He puts so much into working in the community and I don't think it's too much to ask for us to help him now."

To donate to the campaign, visit gofundme.com/283jmbuc