Thousands of pounds have been raised in memory of a young man who sadly died from cancer.

A fundraiser was held at Tom Browns pub in Dorchester to commemorate Matthew Hoskin, who died aged 26, following a battle with cancer.

Matthew’s family and friends came together on what would have been his 31st birthday for a fun day and duck race in the pub’s beer garden.

The celebrations also included a barbecue, bouncy castle, face painting, children’s fun and games, family yoga, raffle, auction and live music.

Matthew’s sister, Jacquie Mowlam, said: “The day went so well; we were thrilled with how many people turned up to support the event. We are so grateful to all of Matthew’s friends and family for coming along to celebrate Matthew’s life and at the same time raise funds to help young cancer patients and their families.

"I am so pleased that we raised £2,765. Matthew was very kind and volunteered at the local CLIC Sargent charity shop in Weymouth, and we wanted to continue with his support for the charity. The money raised has gone towards Jean’s House in Southampton, the new CLIC Sargent Home from Home there.

"The charity have had a house in Southampton since 1991 and my family stayed in the previous home. We really know how essential the house is for families travelling from Weymouth to the nearest specialist hospital in Southampton.”

Liz Blunt, local Fundraising Engagement Manager for Dorset said: “What a wonderful way to remember Matthew on his birthday. The money the family have raised is a tremendous amount and their support really means a lot to us. Thanks to fantastic supporters like the Hoskins, Jean’s House is now open.

“However, we don’t receive any government funding and it will cost over £100,000 a year to run the house, so we really are grateful to the Hoskins family and friends for their support for Jean’s House that helps Dorset families.I am delighted that the Fun Day and Duck Race went so well and special thanks to Matthew’s sisters, Jacquie and Rachel, and Katie from the Tom Browns pub.”

If you would like to make a donation to the family’s Just Giving page, please go to https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Rachel-Holloway1