FAMILY and friends of a man whose life was tragically cut short on a night out in Leamington have raised thousands of pounds for a baby hospice.
Robert Bavington, affectionally known as Bav, died after an alleged assault outside Moo Bar in Russell Street in April.
The 28-year-old’s nearest and dearest wanted to raise £1,000 for Zoë’s Place Baby Hospice in Coventry – but ended up collecting over £13,000.
They organised a ‘Be More Bav’ event at the city’s Fargo Village, where Robert’s former web design company was based.
Robert’s brother James said: “Hundreds of people turned up, demonstrating how popular he was, and took part in raffles and auctions to boost funds donated in his memory.
“Robert was an adventurous, fun loving guy who led life to the full. He was also a kind, considerate man and would have been proud that money raised in his name will benefit the lives of others.
“The family recently paid a visit to Zoe’s Place and we were all so impressed with the quality of the hospice and the care given by the nurses. It’s wonderful to see how our donation is helping.
“For me personally, being a new father, it was also quite emotional to think that there are people that need Zoë’s Place just to get a few hours respite, recharge their batteries so they can concentrate on parenting a child with complex medical needs.”
Mick McCann, fundraising manager at the hospice, said: “We are absolutely overwhelmed with the funds raised by the Bavington family and friends of Robert.
“To raise over £13,000 is just astonishing and greatly appreciated.
“The hospice provides round the clock care every day, and to do this we need to raise over £1million every year, so you can just see how much this means to us.”
The hospice provides palliative, respite and end-of-life care for babies and infants with life-limiting and life-threatening illnesses.
Robert, from Rugby, suffered severe head injuries. A 30 year-old man from Wolverhampton, Vijay Masih, has been charged with Robert’s manslaughter, and is awaiting trial.
