Walsall yachtsman death: Over £1,500 raised in memory of paramedic Thomas Hodgson
More than £1,500 has been raised in memory of a Black Country paramedic whose body was found in the sea.
But after the 42-year-old failed to come back a search was launched and his body was discovered in the water by a fisherman on Saturday morning.
Now former colleagues of the Willenhall-based West Midlands Ambulance Service worker have started a fundraising campaign to donate money to his family.
Within days it has smashed the initial target of £500, with more than triple that pouring in from well-wishers.
Around 140 people have pledged money so far. Many have also left messages paying tribute to Mr Hodgson.
Nigel Whyte, a technician at West Midlands Ambulance Service, said: "Tom was one of the good guys would help anyone had the honour to call him a friend as well as a regular crew mate been through a lot of hard calls together and helped a lot of people."
Leigh Keyte posted: "Tragic loss of such a well loved gentleman. RIP."
Another colleague Martin Waite said: "I only worked five shifts with you Tom but enjoyed them. Really appreciated the effort you made to support a newbie out on the road. One of the good guys. RIP mate."
Tom Elphee's message said: "RIP Tom. Such a decent bloke who'll be sorely missed.
"Deepest sympathy to the family."
West Midlands Ambulance Service have set up their own book of condolences at the Willenhall hub where he worked on Ashmore Lake Way.
It will be handed to the family at a later date.
Willenhall Area Manager, Paul Baylis, said: "Tom was an extremely professional and caring member of the ambulance service family. He always gave his full commitment to providing the best for his patients."
