'Taken far too soon': Fundraiser launched after two Staffordshire brothers die within five days of each other

A fundraiser has been set up on GoFundMe after two brothers from Stoke-on-Trent died within five days of each other.

David Rogers died aged 37 from a massive brain bleed on Monday 15 June. Sadly, his older brother Christopher Rogers died aged 42 from sepsis just five days later on Friday 19 June.

Their cousin, Neil Hargreaves, is raising thousands to support Christopher and David’s parents, Linda and Mick, and their older brother, John.

He told the Express & Star: “Two beautifully unique souls who I'm proud to be able to have called my cousin's. Taken far too soon and in such tragic ways, but together forever and eternally in mine and hearts of others forever”.

The family are now planning a double funeral and the money raised from the GoFundMe page will go towards the funeral expenses.

Mr Hargreaves wrote on the GoFundMe page: “On behalf of the Rogers family I've set this up to raise funds for the much loved brothers who both tragically passed away within five days of each other.

“To help raise funds for funeral expenses.”

More than £4,000 has already been raised, and there is currently a £6,000 target on the GoFundMe page.

In an update, posted on Wednesday (24 June), Mr Hargreaves added: “The family are truly overwhelmed with the generosity of you all. Please continue to share far and wide to give these two much loved brothers the send off they so thoroughly deserve.”