A FUNDRAISING appeal in memory of Chepstow opera singer Karl Daymond has raised more than £2,000.

Mr Daymond, who was 52, died after collapsing at a meeting of Chepstow Town Council earlier this month.

A fundraising page has now been organised by Karl’s friends and family, with donations being made in aid of The Kaleidoscope Trust, a charity which works to help improve the rights of the global LGBT community.

Izzy Harris, who set up the fundraising page, wrote: “Karl was a passionate advocate for fairness, freedom and equality his whole life. The LGBT community was a group very close to Karl’s heart. Karl’s close family, including his husband Ian, decided that fundraising for this cause would reflect Karl’s values perfectly.

“Karl’s death has evoked shock and heartbreak for so many people in his community, his home town of Chepstow, the music and theatre industry and of anyone who had the pleasure of knowing him. We created this fundraising page for people to celebrate Karl’s life whilst helping to continue his legacy of love, kindness and selflessness.”

A day of celebration to remember and pay tribute to Mr Daymond will also be held next month, with an array of musical performances and speeches to be made. The event will take place in the fields behind Elmdale off Castleford Hill, Chepstow, on Sunday 10th September from 11am to 3pm.

To donate to the appeal visit www.justgiving.com/karldaymond

Donations can also be sent to Philip Blatchly and Son Limited, 5 Station Road, Chepstow, NP16 5PA.