Missing West Midlands firefighter's fundraising appeal smashes target
Iain Hughes went missing in the English Channel on Tuesday.
A missing West Midlands firefighter's fundraising appeal has smashed it's target.
Iain Hughes was raising money for the British Heart Foundation, The Firefighters Charity and the Midlands Air Ambulance.
The 42-year-old was attempting to swim the English Channel - before he went missing on Tuesday.
But, on Thursday, searches for the West Midlands firefighter were called off.
Helicopters from both France and Belgium assisted in efforts to find Iain, but were called off after two days of searching.
On Twitter, West Midlands Fire Service say they are 'heartbroken'.
A video has also been released by Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Simon Barry, emphasising the Force's sadness of the news that Iain still has not been found.
In the video, Officer Barry discusses Iains fundraiser and encourages the wider public to 'take it even higher'.
On Friday morning (23 June), the fundraiser sits at 160% of the initial fundraising goal of £21,000. A total of over £35,000 has been raised for the three charities.
The page also features heartfelt messages from members of the public - who also express their sadness for the family of the father-of-two.
One comment reads:
"Thoughts and prayers for you Iain, your family and friends. Your sacrifice so sad and awful. Thank you, I hope you are now at peace."
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