A HOUSEBUILDER has pledged £1,000 to a hospice in memory of a much-loved father-of-three and former footballer.

Tony Hopper, of Brampton, died last year from motor neurone disease, aged 42.

His death prompted an outpouring of tributes, including from fans of Carlisle United Football Club, where he had been a popular player.

Eden Valley Hospice, at Carlisle, will receive the donation from developer Persimmon Homes as part of its Community Champions scheme.

The hospice was nominated by Tony's family and friends.

Sue, his widow, said: “There are few people who make an impact like Tony did. He had been reluctant to go into any care establishment because he wanted to stay with me and our three boys, but Eden Valley Hospice enabled all of us to spend precious time together while Tony was cared for.

“We were all very grateful for the treatment and care Tony received and it was his wish that any fundraising done in his name would help to ensure others in need could benefit from the same service.”

Diane Finch, sales and marketing director at Persimmon Homes Lancashire, said: “Every month we receive hundreds of applications for Community Champions funding, but this one really stood out.

"The support our local hospices deliver for people in the region is second to none, so we are proud to help them and donate in memory of someone who is dearly missed by his family and friends.”

Since the Community Champions scheme was set up in 2015, Persimmon has given more than £2 million to 3,000 good causes.

The housebuilder has also launched a new fund, Building Futures, to help people under 18.

For more, see www.persimmonhomes.com/charity