Mervyn's family plans memorial fundraiser

Mervyn Craig moved to the Wigan area in January, for what his family expected would be a month-long stay while he worked on a building site.

He was reported missing in early February and for several weeks remained unaccounted for.

In early March Greater Manchester Police announced the 46-year-old’s body had been found in a canal near to Seven Stars Bridge, off Wallgate, in Wigan, where he was last seen alive on February 8.

It was later reported there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding his death.

Now, Mr Craig’s family is to hold a memorial event in Lisburn’s Alexander’s Bar.

Proceeds will go to Diabetes UK in light of the fact that Mr Craig, a father of four and grandfather of three, was himself an insulin dependent diabetic, who required daily self-medication via injection from a weekly prescription.

“There is a raffle taking place on the night,” said Mervyn’s sister Pamela Harper.

“The prizes include a £100 tattoo voucher, hair and beauty voucher, body shop voucher, Subaru Jacket etc. All proceeds are going to Diabetes Uk.”

The fundraiser will take place on June 10, from 8pm, and as well as the raffle it will feature a DJ, buffet and ‘selfie mirror’.

Diabetes UK was the beneficiary too of donations made by mourners at Mr Craig’s funeral. A service took place at Ashmount Gardens, Lisburn, followed by a service and Committal at Roselawn Crematorium.

A Go Fund Me’ page, set up by members of the community of Wigan, also raised £179, aimed at helping with family costs.

On the page the organiser posted, “We want to offer help and support to the family of Irishman Mervyn Craig who our community of Wigan have took into our hearts.

“We are wanting to raise funds in order to help with his funeral or any other costs the family may endure. RIP Mervyn you were a much loved man by many! X”