A kind-hearted Northampton woman set to host funeral fundraiser for suspected murder victim

A selfless woman is rallying the community together to raise money for a 'jokey' and 'smiley' Northampton club-goer who police believe was murdered in Northampton.
Paul SmithPaul Smith
Paul Smith

Andrea Trueman, the secretary of Northampton Working Men’s Club, is playing host to a fund-raiser next month to help pay for the funeral of Paul Smith, a Kings Heath man who died in August from the injuries he sustained during an incident at the Edge of Town pub in Regent Square more than three months ago.

The event is due to take place on November 6 and up to 90 percent of takings on the likes of raffle tickets and an auction will help pay for Mr Smith’s funeral.

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Mrs Trueman said: “We look after all of our members here. Paul was obviously well known, very well liked and always did put a smile on someone’s face.

“Two barrels of bitter from Theakstons and Tetleys have been donated to the club. Paul was a season ticket holder at Northampton Saints and a barrel of Saints ale will be sold in his honour.”

Alick Smith, Paul’s father, told the Chronicle and Echo that they used to go everywhere together.

He said: “We can’t put a closure on Paul’s death. I have trouble not knowing what happened and would like to see him laid to rest. I get asked every day when the service is going to be, it’s tough not being able to tell well-wishers a date.

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“The main thing is that a lot of people knew him as always telling jokes and smiling. Anything Paul did he put his heart and soul into, he didn’t have an enemy.

“I’m amazed at all the support that has been shown for Paul. I wish it was under different circumstances but it shows me how well respected he really was. I’m so humbled.”

Mr Smith’s family want to host the funeral at Franklin’s Gardens as it’s expected that over 300 people could attend.

Kind-hearted local businesses have been in touch with the club to contribute prizes for the raffle and Northampton Saints have generously donated a signed shirt, which the club are hoping to sell for up to £200.

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The event is set to take place at Northampton Working Men’s Club from 3pm to 7pm.

All members and non-members are welcome to attend.

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