ONE former soldier’s final fight that has inspired thousands of pounds worth of fundraising has given way to grief from his family, friends and comrades.

Phil Cox, who celebrated his 37th birthday last week, died holding his wife’s hand after being diagnosed with an incurable complication of his testicular cancer that had spread to his lungs and brain.

Soldiers from across the country pledged their support to Mr Cox’s family last month in an attempt to raise £110,000 for the Afghanistan veteran to stop his family home in Billingham from being sold.

Mr Cox was forced to put his home on the market after realising that a lack of life insurance would leave his wife, Kerri, 41, and their children, Joe, four, and Keira, ten, unable to meet mortgage payments alone.

Two fundraising efforts online have raised more than £24,600, however Mr Cox died in the early hours of yesterday morning before the family’s fundraising target could be met.

Mrs Cox posted an online tribute to her husband and said: “Phil was a true soldier until the very end and never gave up. At least now he is at peace and his battle is over.

“No more fighting now Phil Cox sleep well. You will forever be with me in spirit, two souls as one.

“Until I join you in the next life I will miss you with every breath but the wait will be worth it.”

She added: “Love you hubster, always and forever.”

Earlier this month, Stockton town centre was brought to a standstill in a moving salute to Mr Cox as a colourful convoy of 150 bikers, painted trucks and other vehicles made their way to the Don Bar.

The remembrance-themed fundraiser was attended by Mr Cox’s son and stepdaughter who wore camouflage Army-inspired outfits and were looked after by the former soldier’s eldest brother, Lee.

Mr Cox had been given just months to live following his devastating leptominigeal disease and was being cared for at the Butterwick Hospice.

An online tribute to the 37-year-old read: “Phil was an amazing man who was so brave in the face of such difficult circumstances.

“Although you’re separated for a short time he hasn’t left you and will live on in your love, the people he loved and some fantastic memories.”