SHOCKED friends have paid tribute to a "fantastic and tireless campaigner" for charity who has died two months after having a leading role in Bolton Pride.
Many people met Darren Batey when he was volunteers manager for the town's first LGBT event held between October 16 and 18 to great acclaim.
Darren, who lived in Manchester, died at the age of 32.
Antony Cotton, who stars in Coronation Street, tweeted his condolences as did Wes Streeting, the Labour MP for Ilford North in London, who knew Darren through their time at the National Union of Students.
Absolutely devastated to hear of the death of our friend @darren_batey. Good night sweet prince, and flights of angels sing thee to thy rest
— Antony Cotton (@antonycotton) December 21, 2015
Darren, originally from Millom, Cumbria, was an ambassador at One Young World and worked with a number of other causes The Albert Kennedy Trust.
He hosted a birthday fundraising dinner in September in aid of Macmillan Cancer Research, Dementia UK, Toffs and Manchester Children's Hospital.
Sending our love and support to Darren Batey's family. We were so lucky to have him as part of our team this year x pic.twitter.com/en8EPnQ763
— Bolton Pride 2016 (@PrideBolton) December 22, 2015
Bolton Pride co-organiser James Edgington was one of those who expressed their sadness via social media.
Sad news about Darren Batey. Lots of love to his family and close friends. X
— James Edgington (@JamesEdgington) December 22, 2015
We are hugely saddened to hear of the passing of our friend and supporter Darren Batey. Our thoughts are with all those close to him.
— Albert Kennedy Trust (@AlbertKennedyTr) December 21, 2015
A crowdfunding appeal has been set up in Darren's memory called Darren's Farewell Fund!
More than £2,400 has been raised of the £3,500 target at www.gofundme.com/sweetcheeksbatey
David Apsley-Thompson, who set up the fund, wrote: "Darren touched the lives of so many people all over the world and had an amazing ability to bring people together.
"His commitment to third sector fundraising and volunteering was beyond selfless and the impact he has had on so many lives is immeasurable and invaluable.
"Darren sadly passed away over the weekend and has left a huge void in so many of our hearts, no one more so than his parents, sisters and family in Cumbria.
"Darren put so many others before himself every day of his life, and now it's time to give back a little piece of the love he gave us all to help support his family through this difficult time and ensure Darren gets the send off he deserves."
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