Thousands raised to pay for Big Issue vendor’s funeral after his death in Oxford
Paul Crawford’s sudden passing has sparked tributes and fundraising efforts
More than £4,000 has been raised to cover the funeral costs for Paul Crawford, a Big Issue vendor who passed away over the New Year at the age of 48.
Crawford was found at his home on 2nd January, and an inquest into his death opened last week, with a full inquest scheduled for 30th April.
His passing has led to tributes from the community in Summertown, Oxford, where he was well known by the local community.
Floral tributes and messages have been placed on the bench at Crawford’s selling pitch outside Tesco in Summertown, which has become a focal point for mourning.
An online fundraiser, launched by Father Gavin Knight of St Michael & All Angels Church in Summertown alongside Reverend Felicity Blair, has raised almost £5,000.
Arrangements for Crawford’s funeral are being finalised, with remaining funds set to be donated to local homeless charities, including The Porch, The Gatehouse, and Emmaus.
Crawford’s ashes will be interred at the church’s Remembrance Garden alongside his brother Daniel.
The Big Issue has expressed its sadness at Paul’s sudden death, marking him as a long-standing and much-loved vendor in Summertown.
The community is encouraged to continue supporting The Big Issue and its vendors, especially during the winter months.