THE family of a doting 25-year-old father who died suddenly this week are calling for help to give him “the send off he deserves”.
Matthew Archbank has been described as an “amazing lad” who adored his daughter Mia, aged three, by loved ones left devastated by his death.
The young dad was discovered on Tuesday afternoon at his flat, on Clarks Yard, in Darlington, after suffering what his family said was an epileptic seizure.
Clarks Yard, in Darlington
Now they are appealing for help to raise enough cash to cover funeral costs.
Close family friend Stacey Lea, of Newton Aycliffe, who set up the campaign with the permission of his family, said: “He’s only 25 so he’s got no life insurance and no savings. With it being so sudden, we just want to give him the best send off because he really deserves it. With it being sudden and unexpected it shocked everyone. I hope everyone will try and help.
“The person he has made me - it’s the last thing I can do for him.”
Since Wednesday £1,870 of a £3,000 target has been raised.
Ms Lea had spent last weekend in Newton Aycliffe with Mr Archbank, his sister Kelly White, 28, her four children and his daughter, who lives in Bishop Auckland with her mother.
The 30-year-old said: “”We had just had a weekend all together - from the Saturday all the way through to Monday morning. We all said it was the best weekend of our lives.”
Originally from Newton Aycliffe, Mr Archbank, known also as Matty or Archy, had this year moved to Darlington where he worked at Magnet Kitchens.
As a youngster he attended Woodham Burn Community Primary School and Greenfield School.
Paying tribute to Mr Archbank, on behalf of the family, Ms Lea added: “He was the most amazing lad you could ever meet in your life.
“He adored his daughter Mia. She spent every weekend with him and they really were best friends.
“He leaves his mark wherever he goes. Every single person who knows him knows he was the most genuine person you would ever know. There were no faults about him.”
Dozens have already taken to social media to pay tribute to the father-of-one and add their voice to the plea for funds.
- To donate towards Mr Archbank’s funeral click here
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here