THOUSANDS of pounds have been raised for the family of a Dorset firefighter wo tragically passed away while on duty earlier this month.

After Dorset and Wiltshire Fire crew member, Simon Kaye passed away on Monday April 13, his family were flooded with tributes to the "experienced and professional" firefighter.

He was taken ill during a "routine" day shift at Christchurch Fire Station, and after being given treatment by colleagues, he was taken to Royal Bournemouth Hospital where he sadly died.

Now, a benevolent fund has been created, with the aim of raising money to help support Simon's family, including his 18-month-old daughter, Delilah.

While the initial target was to raise £1,000, now more than £7,600 has been raised, which will go towards providing Delilah with some financial support through her childhood years and help maintain a safe, nurturing and loving environment that Simon would have wished for.

As previously reported, after Simon's death, the Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service's chief fire officer, Ben Ansell was "stunned by the event" and has said that it is a "devastating loss" for everyone.

He said: "Everyone across Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service has been stunned by these events and this is a devastating loss for us all.

"Simon had been a firefighter for over 30 years and served at stations across our Service and before that in West Yorkshire.

"I personally worked closely with Simon for a number of years and know he was an experienced, professional and skilled firefighter who was highly regarded by his colleagues.

“His passing is a huge loss to us all and my thoughts and deepest condolences go out to his partner and family."

To donate to the benevolent fund and help support Simon's family, visit: https://justgiving.com/crowdfunding/delilah-kaye.