Loyal Stars Appeal supporter Michael Beck dies
He raised over £450,000 for the hospital charity
Legendary Stars Appeal supporter Michael Beck has passed away at the age of 88 after being diagnosed with incurable cancer.
Over the last 18 years Michael has been a familiar figure with his trusty companion 'Wally the Wheelbarrow,'
his collection bucket in the hospital entrance or at local shops.
He's raised more than £450,000 to help support a range of schemes and inspired many others to donate and fundraise.
The Stars Appeal has described him as a "great friend' and 'brilliant supporter'.
The charity released this statement;
"Michael’s support has made, and continues to make, a life-changing difference to the health care of tens of thousands of local people. His efforts have played a major role in funding many Stars Appeal projects including Salisbury’s first dedicated Breast Unit, the Children’s Unit, state-of-the-art scanners, recreational activities for Spinal Unit patients and cancer support programmes."
"It was very important to Michael that his work continued and it is fitting that so many of his friends stepped forward to carry on fundraising and collecting in his name when he became unwell. The rooms named in his honour in the Breast Unit, MRI Scanning Suite and Children’s Unit are testament to his incredible legacy and, when the time is right, we will look to find other ways to honour his commitment to our work."
"All of us at the Stars Appeal owe Michael a massive debt of gratitude. And, like so many, we will hugely miss Michael and his warm, welcoming and inspiring presence here in our hospital. Our thoughts and deepest sympathies go out to his daughter Jane, his wider family and his many, many friends."
In June Michael revealed his last wish was to raise half a million pounds for the Stars Appeal.
His Respiratory Consultant, Dr Anna Barton set up a Just Giving page for that crucial last push.
Greatest Hits Radio Salisbury have shared the link again in his honour.