An online appeal has raised almost £12,000 to support the family of a Black Isle man who died after being struck by a car on New Year’s Day.
George Jack, from Avoch, was left in a critical condition after the incident in his home village and died later in hospital.
The popular 36-year-old worked as a groundsman and digger driver and was well known for his contribution to community life, along with wife Jillian.
The couple breathed new life into Avoch sports pavilion by regularly cutting the grass, tidying the grounds and serving behind the bar.
Now locals have rallied round to “give something back”.
Last night a Just Giving page, which was only set up on Friday, had already raised £11,650.
The page has been set up by close friend Rikki Keanie.
He wrote: “To all those who knew George, they will remember him as a kind, funny and larger than life character who was completely devoted to his lovely family.
“George was also a massive believer in ‘community’ within his village of Avoch and has demonstrated this by fulfilling our vision of bringing everyone together at the heart of the village.
“It is safe to say that George was a man who liked to get things done instead of talking about doing it and it was this motivation along with the support of locals that has brought a promising change to the village.
“George and his wife Jillian have together devoted huge amounts of time and effort in order to try and provide their beloved girls and all other locals with some facilities within the village. It is with this dedication in mind that many people have expressed their desire to give something back to the family and help them through this very difficult period in their lives.
“I was asked to set up this page in order for people to give their support by trying to help ease the financial burden that comes with losing a loved one.”
Mr Keanie continues: “In recent years the Jack family have become like family to my own and I would like nothing more than to know that we have all done our little bit to support George’s girls now he is gone. I personally will be lost without my gaffer giving me jobs down the club and already miss him more than words can describe.”
