Father ends Sheringham silence fundraiser for son's legacy

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A fairy-themed fundraiser by a father from Sheringham has captured the support his town.

Kev Pitcher raised more than £4,400 through a 72-hour sponsored silence in memory of his son Benny, who died from an aggressive brain tumour.

The challenge, which began at 7pm on January 28 and ended at 7pm on January 31, was in aid of Benny’s Battalion Fund, set up in his memory by his family through the Norfolk Community Foundation.

·Kev Pitcher with Jaymic Workshop (Image: Supplied)

Mr Pitcher said: "Finishing those 72 hours was emotional.

"Staying silent was unbelievably hard for me, but every moment reminded me why we were doing this.

"Benny inspired us to help other families going through the darkest of times, and seeing the support from our community was incredible.

"Knowing that this money will make a real difference brings huge comfort."

Kev Pitcher with Wills Fish and Chips team (Image: Supplied)

His six-year-old son died from DIPG, an aggressive brain tumour.

Mr Pitcher collected donations throughout the town and in Sheringham’s pubs, with support from the town criers of both Sheringham and Cromer.

The challenge ended with a packed fundraiser at Harry’s Bar in East Runton, and raised a total of £4,455.32.

Benny's Battalion Kev and Town Crier (Image: Supplied)

Julie Pitcher, Mr Pitcher’s wife, said: "We never imagined the response would be so huge.

"Watching Kev push through something so far outside his comfort zone was amazing.

"The silence at home was a novelty, but what made me really happy was seeing how many people remember Benny and want to help other families in his memory."

Benny Pitcher (Image: Supplied)

Sara Herschel-Shorland from the Norfolk Community Foundation said: "Kev’s challenge has not only raised an incredible amount, but it has also brought much needed awareness to what families face when a child receives a terminal diagnosis.

"We are deeply grateful for everyone who contributed."

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