Tributes have been paid to Preston man Tony Slater who has passed away.
Tony, who died on Thursday 29 December, was well known in Preston for his singing and charity work. He was a prolific fundraiser and during his lifetime raised incredible amounts for local and national charities.
Tony’s daughter-in-law Sharron Mulvaney shared the news in Facebook groups including Preston Past and Present.
Tony’s family are now fundraising for Rosemere Cancer Foundation in his memory.
Writing on JustGiving, Sharron said: “Sadly we have lost our Greatest Showman and as a family we are devastated.
“Tony was a prolific fundraiser and he worked tirelessly raising funds for and awareness of local and national charities.
“He received support from Rosemere during his fight against cancer and we know that he would want us to continue to fundraise in his name.”
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Tributes flooded in on Facebook, with Tony being described as ‘a wonderful man’, ‘a top entertainer’, and ‘Mr Preston’.
Others shared their memories of Tony.
Alex Grant said: “A lovely man who gave us lots of enjoyment and entertainment round the pubs and clubs in Preston. Some great nights in the Club Royale in the 60s.”
Stephen Fox said: “Absolutely a great guy, life and soul always friendly – knew him socially via Preston Marriott gym and subsequently via the fundraising circuit where he was so proficient – a big loss.”
Hilary Machell said: “I knew Tony from his frequent visits to the Harris (where I worked) and his involvement in the campaign to erect a statue to Richard Arkwright. He was a lovely chap.”
Amy Skelton said: “I used to sing and bumped into Tony on the entertainment scene many times. He was always full of encouragement and was very kind towards me. Rock on Tony.”
A celebration of Tony’s life will be held on Thursday 19 January at 1pm at Preston Crematorium and then St Gregory’s Club in Blackpool Road.
To donate to Rosemere in Tony’s memory, visit JustGiving.
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