A GRIEVING Romsey woman has launched a fund-raising campaign to support the people who cared for her tragic husband.

Diane Holloway is staging a series of charity events to coincide with what would have been her husband Keith’s 65th birthday. The roofer, a popular and well-known character in the town, died after an asthma attack in October.

And since then, Diane has been raising money to support the Intensive Care Unit that cared for Keith at Southampton General Hospital, as well as the charity Wessex Heartbeat.

Pubs, shops and businesses around Romsey have been collecting cash in sweet jars, while a garden sale and musical tribute night are both being planned to take place at The Tavern in the coming weeks.

Diane said: “I never thought I could do anything like this and I don’t know where the strength came from to do it, but I just hope Keith would be proud of me.

“The care at the hospital was phenomenal. They were brilliant – even after Keith’s death.

“We all know what a great help they are in the care they provide. We also never know when this care may be needed by one of us in the future again. The care given not only to Keith but to all of us was dedicated beyond belief.”

Hundreds packed Romsey Abbey for Keith’s funeral last year. He was a familiar face in The Tavern, which has been heavily involved in fund-raising in his memory.

Diane said she wanted people to know that Keith had donated two main heart arteries, which she said were used to save the lives of two new-born babies. She added: “Keith’s death was a massive shock.

“He was the kind of person who would do everything for me. He was such a generous man and if he had won a million pounds, he would spend it on people he knew needed it.

“I have been overwhelmed with the support I have had from people in the town. It has been incredibly comforting for me.”

l A garden sale is taking place at The Tavern, in The Hundred, on Saturday, April 25, featuring tea, coffee, cakes bookstalls and fruit stands.

A tribute night is also taking place on May 2 at The Tavern from 6.30pm, which will feature the band Peter Pod and The Peas.or donations contact Diana on 01794 511449