Fundraising campaign launched to help family of loyal Banbury United supporter who lost battle with Covid-19

Barry Pocock, aged 37, was a popular and regular supporter of Banbury United recently died of Covid-19. Barry was described as a devoted husband to Claire and father to their two young daughters.

Family friend, Kimberley Morgan, set up a JustGiving web page to help Barry's family. Whilst their target of £4,000 has already been reached they would like to raise as much as possible to help support this family.

Anyone who would like to contribute to the Barry Pocock fund can use the following web link: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/barry-pocockKimberley's JustGiving message said: "As you all know by now, Barry Pocock, husband of my best friend Claire recently passed away due to Covid-19 after a brave four week battle in hospital.

"Barry was a wonderful husband and doting father to Charlotte and Sophie. He also touched the lives of many around him and is remembered for his caring and selfless ways. Barry dedicated his life to Claire and the girls which makes this even more difficult to come to terms with.

"He often volunteered to help out at Banbury United and is well known by all associated with the team.

"We are all devastated by Barry’s death and were not prepared for the associated costs and loss of the main breadwinner of the family. I want to help give Claire and the girls the security and stability they need to make this difficult time as easy as possible for them to deal with.

"I am currently asking for donations to help cover the cost of Barry’s funeral and to support Claire and the girls whilst the housing situation is resolved.

"I have set the target at £4000 but as you know the financial burden of a situation like that can cost much more. If you can donate, no matter how little, I thank you from the bottom of my heart."

Barry’s funeral service has been arranged to take place on Tuesday February 16 at Banbury Crematorium and due to the current situation, the service will be by invitation only. There will be an opportunity for those wishing to pay their respects to Barry on his final journey by gathering along Beaumont Road, near to his work place of Xypex from 12.35pm.

The Banbury United Football Club has posted a tribute to Barry on its website.

Barry was a regular supporter and often seen in the Town End part of the ground. He also volunteered whenever the club were short of match-day personnel.

"He was a genuine kind and lovely man," said Banbury United, in a statement.

"Barry was an Arsenal fan but also had been a supporter of the club for a number of years.

"Barry was a devoted husband to Claire and father to their two young daughters.

"Everyone at the club – officials, players and supporters alike send them our heartfelt condolences."