A TIMPERLEY grandfather of five who became a well known figure as he bravely battled terminal cancer has died.

Tommy Stott died on Saturday, September 2 at the age of 67.

Retired chef Tommy, who used to cook for David Beckham and the Class of ’92 at Manchester United, became an avid fundraiser for cancer research.

His successful fundraising events, including ‘Tommy’s Fundraising Ceilidh Night’, were published in the Messenger and boosted cancer charities by more than £25,000.

He could often be seen out collecting for Trafford’s Loose Change Buskers, who have raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for Cancer Research UK.

He valued his ties with Manchester United and the club's legendary former manager, Sir Alex Ferguson, rang him just 10 days before he died.

Tommy was married to Yvonne for 44 years. He also leaves a daughter, Dawn, and two sons Jonathan and William, and grandchildren Amy, Eva, Phoebe, Annabelle and Esmea. A sixth grandchild, Sophia, will soon be born.

His son, Jonathan, said: "I am very proud to say he was my Dad.

"He was an inspiration into everyone he came into contact with.

"He dedicated his life to bringing a smile to people's faces and to raising as much money as possible for charity."

He added: "He passed away very peacefully at home with his family around him."

Last October, Tommy touched the hearts of millions as he shared his experience of living with terminal cancer in a Stand Up To Cancer appeal film, which was broadcast in a Channel 4 special.

In 2013 Tommy was diagnosed with stage 3 oesophageal cancer.

After undergoing two rounds of chemotherapy and an operation on his oesophagus, the grandfather-of-three was given the all clear. However, a routine scan later revealed a sit had returned to his liver and adrenal gland. He underwent more chemotherapy.

The funeral will take place on September 18 at Altrincham Crematorium at 10.20am. Everyone is welcome to attend it.

The wake will be at Bowdon Rugby Club, Clay Lane, Timperley, with the family only to supply flowers.

Loose Change will play at the wake.