A LOVING father has passed away at the age of 38 after battling a rare and aggressive terminal illness.

Dave Wakefield from Bracknell, also known as 'Little Dave', was diagnosed with Goblet cell carcinoid (GCC) after complaining about pain in his abdomen in November 2020.

The father worked at The Silver Birch pub in Bracknell for 15 years and was well known within the Birch Hill community.

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Dave sadly passed away with his wife Jacqui by his side on Sunday, March 27, following support from the Thames Hospice Palliative Response Team. 

Bracknell News:

A fundraising appeal was set up by Jordan Ward to raise funds for his family's future.

His mother-in-law Caron Harrison said: "Family and friends, including his four month old son Harry, were at The Silver Birch at the time as the raffle in his honour was being drawn, this was of course postponed and is expected to be resumed on Thursday after the funeral during the celebration of his life. 

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"We wish to thank everyone who has offered support, whether that has been by donation or by offering a kind word, support or assistance. 

"The team at The Silver Birch, with the Dave fundraiser led by Jordan and Leigh, have been absolutely amazing. 

"The local Morrisons Daily in Birch Hill also rallied for toys for Harry and a generous contribution was made. Harry is very happy with his new toys and we thank you."

Dave spent the last nine days at home with his family enjoying the warm Spring sunshine.

Caron explained how her daughter Jacqui 'nagged' Dave to go to the doctors in November 2020 as he was experiencing pain.

On Jacqui's 30th birthday she was told how long Dave had left to live and his treatment plan.

Caron said: "I don't think many of us realise how loved we are until something tragic happens. I spent a lot of time with Dave and he said that so many times to me." 

The funeral takes place on Thursday, April 14 at 2.30pm at Easthampstead Park Crematorium followed by the wake after at The Silver Birch pub in Birch Hill. 

Around 200 people are expected to say their goodbyes to Dave later today.