People / Spotlight
Fundraising campaign in memory of footballer
A fundraising appeal has been launched in honour of a popular footballer and coach who died during a charity cycle ride in Bristol.
Paul Withey was taking part in St Peter’s Hospice’s Tour De Bristol on April 2 when he suffered a suspected heart attack.
The 42-year-old worked for CableCom Networking near Clevedon who have initiated a fundraising campaign, #All4Withs, to raise £10,000 for Children’s Hospice South West.
is needed now More than ever
Paul was an avid sportsman having taken part in numerous treks, runs and cycle rides raising tens of thousands of pounds for charity.
This year, he was due to take part in a charity bike ride from London to Paris alongside three other members of CableCom’s senior management team, who are now embarking on the journey in his honour.
Alongside the bike ride, the #All4Withs campaign will see the company host a walk from their offices to AEK Boco Football Club in Hanham on June 4.
Paul devoted much of his time to the football club where he was both a successful player and an even more successful youth coach.
Being a devoted Bristol Rovers fan, the club honoured Paul’s passing with a minute’s applause on the 42nd minute of their last game of the season.
Rhys Thomas, who worked with Paul said: “We’re all still in a shock here at CableCom. Paul was our service delivery director, he possessed a ferocious work ethic and an unceasing desire to do the best he possibly could for everyone whose path he crossed.
“A more caring, positive, strong and inspirational character would be impossible to find. I say that not based on Paul the professional, but Paul the person.”
CableCom’s charity bike ride from London to Paris will take place from June 2 to 4, and is planned to finish at the same time as the company’s walk.
For more information surrounding the events taking place in Paul’s honour, visit www.all4withs.co.uk. To donate, visit www.justgiving.com/Paul-Withey-CHSW
Main photo: Paul Withey with his son Luke and daughter Mollie