FRIENDS of an 'inspirational' barman are looking for support to ensure he does not end up with 'a paupers funeral'.

Richard Martin, known as 'Skinner', died suddenly at his home in Edgar Street, Accrington last week age 55.

He had previously worked behind the bar at the Duke of Wellington pub in Great Harwood for around 10 years.

With his family estranged, a group of his close friends have stepped forward to give him 'a funeral he deserves'.

After a meeting with funeral directors Barton and Hallworth, friends have created a fundraising page with a £2,000 target to pay for the funeral.

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Wendy Higham, 41, one of the friends involved in setting up the funeral campaign, said he was 'inspirational' and had turned his life around following drug problems.

She said: "It was such a shock when he passed away.

"He was kind and generous and helped would any one in need, he was inspirational.

"He had a troubled start in life in and out of the care system he became addicted to heroin in his early 20s, and life style that came with it.

"But he had completely turned his life around, its 11 years this November since he's been clean.

"We're trying to do everything we can to raise money, and cut costs where we can by bringing our own flowers and everything.

"Otherwise he would of had to have a pourpers funeral and he deserves a good send off."

He was discovered at his home by friends after they had been worried he wasn't answering his phone and contacted the landlord for a key to go check on him.

Mr Martin had also carried out a motivational speech about his life story to around 2,000 people in the Guild Hall Preston in 2011.

So far £380 has been donated to the cause, with events lined up to raise awareness and funds, including raffles and pool tournaments.

The devoted Manchester City fan was one of the original founders of the City Wil We Die fans group online, which has around 3,500 members.

Friends have also contacted the club who will be donating a flag and holding a raffle in his honour.

Alwin Spirzaker from Accrington, who had known Mr Martin since school said: "He was a true blue and a true friend."

Mr Martin was a keen walker and tackled three peaks for the Prince of Wales Trust.

Attended St Nicholas Primary School in Accrington before going to St Christophers Secondary.

Friends are hoping to arrange a date and location for the funeral once they have raised enough money.

To donate visit www.gofundme.com/skinnermcfc or contact Barton and Hallworth on 01254 390542.