More than £12,000 raised to support family after missing footballer found dead

More than £12,000 has been raised in the space of two days to help support the family of a former Bury FC footballer who died last week.

James Dean, 35, went missing at around midnight on Wednesday (May 5).

A body was later discovered in the Oswaldtwistle area of Lancashire on Sunday afternoon (May 9).

There are believed to be no suspicious circumstances surrounding the death.

Throughout his football career, James played for a number of clubs including Clitheroe FC, Bury FC, Halifax Town, Altrincham FC, Chorley FC, Warrington Town, and Bamber Bridge FC.

He scored 60 goals in 130 appearances for Chorley alone, earning himself the local nickname of 'goal machine'.

Following the news of his death on Sunday, ’RIP Deano’ began trending on Twitter as people shared their tributes to the football star.

Blackburn Rovers footballer Matt Jansen and former Chorley FC manager was amongst those to share messages of condolence, posting that James was “such a great guy”.

Toby Macormac, Chairman and CEO of Warrington Town FC, also decided to set up a fundraiser to help support the footballer’s family.

“Many of you will know the sad passing of James Dean who spent time with us at Warrington Town and other clubs throughout the Northwest,” Toby wrote.

“James touched so many people on his footballing journey and now the Non-League family will come together to help and support his.”

James Dean played for a number of football clubs during his professional career (Lancashire Police)

The fundraiser had an initial target of £10,000 which it has already surpassed.

The donation page currently stands at more than £12,600 from 341 supporters..

“Deepest condolences to his family and friends,” one supporter wrote.

“Was such a cult hero at FC Halifax Town and brought so much joy and happiness.”

Another supporter posted: "Thanks for the memories Deano from a Chorley fan.

"Sincere sympathies to all your family and friends."

In a statement released on Monday, James’ family said they were "utterly heartbroken".

"We are still hoping he will walk back through the door and give us one of his smiles," they said.

"James was a loving father to his boys, a son, grandson, nephew and a brother and he will be desperately missed by so many.

“He was such a genuine and gentle person who would go out of his way to help anyone who needed it.”

You can donate to the fundraiser here.