Residents on a Scottish island have set up a fundraising page for a dad who tragically died after getting into difficulty in the water.
James Smith, 37, from Chester, passed away on August 20 after his inflatable drifted a short distance into the sea off the island of Eriskay.
It's believed the dad-of-two had gone in after the inflatable got into difficulty. He was pulled from the water and given CPR for around 90 minutes but never regained consciousness.
Now those living on the Outer Hebridean island have raised £8,313 to help send his body to Chester where he lived with his partner Gina and his kids Jack, 13, and Ruby, six.
James, who suffered from MS, was unable to get travel insurance due to his condition.
His family are thankful to the residents of the tiny island for helping to send his body back to England.
James’ devastated sister-in-law Siobhan Cartledge, from Deeside, told CheshireLive : “One of the residents set up the fundraiser.
"They have been great and have even been taking food round.”
A GoFundMe post on the tragedy read: "While enjoying a family holiday, James Smith ,37, tragically passed away August 20th in Bun A Mhullin, Eriskay while playing with his children in the sea.
"He was an amazing partner and great friend to Gina.
"Their wonderful children Jack, 13 and Ruby, 6 always made him proud. Gina and James were together for 15 years and despite suffering with MS, he always put his family first.
"He loved football and was a lifelong Everton supporter.
"He was a wonderful family man that was loved by all."
Members of James' family are remaining on Eriskay until all the formalities have concluded.
To donate to the GoFundMe page, click here .
