Showmen from across the UK have come together to show their support for Showman Phillip Searle, after he lost part of his arm last week.

George Irvin started the fundraiser on 10 April, and the following day had already raised more than £17,000 towards helping Searle’s recovery.

“As you all know, our friend and fellow Showman Phillip Searle sadly lost part of his arm on Wednesday 9 April,” said George Irvin. “Phillip is an extremely positive man and we want to give him the best recovery that he can get.”

“This fundraiser is our chance to pull together as a community and help him in his hour of need. All donations will go into a separate account earmarked for Phillip.”

Irvin made the first donation of £500, and the fundraiser has since seen more than 85 people add their own contributions towards the £125,000 goal.