Thousands raised in memory of popular West Ham fan Duncan James
The family of Duncan James, who died from lung cancer last year, held a fundraising event in his memory - Credit: Archant
A dinner and dance organised in memory of a popular locksmith has raised thousands of pounds for charity.
More than 700 people attended the event on March 7, which was held in honour of former Plaistow resident Duncan James.
The event was organised by The Duncan James Charity Fund, set up in the wake of the locksmith’s death from lung cancer in January last year. Its aim is to support people suffering from cancer in the community.
The event, held at the Empire Venue in East Ham, raised £2,350 for St Joseph’s Hospice and Rays of Sunshine.
Duncan’s mother, Mona James, said: “It was a beautiful event that completely exceeded my expectations – I only expected there to be 200 guests.
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“It is wonderful to know that Duncan touched so many people. He would be thrilled that we have set up a charity in his name as he helped a lot of people.”
MTV star Katz hosted the event, also organised by Grief Temptations.
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Football player Joe Powell, from Duncan’s beloved West Ham Football Club, presented a signed shirt from all the players, which raised £150 at auction. Additionally the Levy Restaurant, based at London’s O2 Arena, donated food and a chef for the night.
Duncan passed away at St Joseph’s Hospice aged 40, after an eight-month battle with the disease. More than 850 people attended his funeral and a Facebook page set up by friends has attracted in excess of 600 comments.
Ms James said: “He helped such a lot of people and has left a great legacy.
“He was such an inspiration. Staff from Newham General Hospital would visit him at the hospice and both hospital and hospice staff said that Duncan was what nursing was about and that he had rejuvenated them.”
