A fundraising page set up to support the devastated family of a pub landlord who was stabbed to death, is close to reaching its £20,000 target.
Christian Thornton was violently stabbed outside his pub the Hammer and Pincers on Liverpool Road in Widnes, at around 3.20pm on August 11.
The 49-year-old landlord had reportedly confronted a man, who had been barred from the premises and was then stabbed multiple times.
In the aftermath of his tragic death, a fundraising page was launched to support his heartbroken widow Pam and their children.
And in just a week, the donation page is close to reaching its target with £17,000 already raised.
Among the comments left on the Gofundme page was one by David Wycherley, who said: "I knew him, he booked us to play at his pub, and he didn't deserve this x."
Christine McMillan said: "There are too many good people being taken innocently through violence.
"It's painful for the ones left behind. I hope the fund goes through the roof to help his family."
Daniel Clark said: "Did Chris's beer deliveries for a short time, was without a doubt the most down to earth, genuine guy and the most helpful landlord out of everyone on our round. Always happy to help us. Thoughts to all his friends and family."
The horrific killing caused shockwaves around the Widnes community and beyond, with a sea of floral tributes left outside the pub.
Tonight bikers are preparing to pay tribute to Mr Thornton by holding a ride of respect .
It is due to begin at 6pm from outside Tesco Extra in Widnes, before travelling to the Hammer & Pincers pub and ending at the Halton Castle.
The event organised by Merseyside and Cheshire Blood Bikes - a voluntary service transporting emergency blood and other resources across the county for the NHS - aims to raise awareness of the growing issue of knife crime in the city.
No date for Mr Thornton's funeral has yet been set.
The pub, which was run by Mr Thornton for around 20 years, remains closed in the meantime.
A man has appeared in court charged with the murder of Mr Thornton.
Lee Abbott, 35, of Rose Street, Widnes, pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter.
A trial date has been set for February 10 next year.
