A JUSTGIVING appeal for the family of James Etherington who died after being injured outside a Bingley nightclub has raised almost £10,000 in just four days.

A sea of floral tributes and messages have been left outside the now-closed Bijou Cocktail Bar and Nightclub in Chapel Lane where Mr Etherington, who died on Tuesday, was found with serious head injuries in the early hours of November 25.

The 24-year-old, who worked for Yorkshire Water, was also remembered by a vigil and memorial service in the town today.

Karen Pritchard, who set up the crowdfunding page at justgiving.com/crowdfunding/tohelpthefamilyofjames, said: “The fund for James’ family stands at £9,456, truly amazing. No amount of money can compensate for his loss but I hope that this wonderful show of support from people near and far can give his family some small comfort knowing how much we all care. Thank you, thank you everyone who’s donated.”

The Justgiving goal was set at £10,000 and still has more than 20 days to run.

The vigil and service for Mr Etherington took place in Bingley Market Square outside The Ferrand Arms and was organised by Leah-Dionne Short, a lifelong friend of Mr Etherington, who was supported by her mother, Bingley Town councillor Michelle Chapman (Ind).

Cllr Chapman said with permission from Mr Etherington’s family, they had decided to arrange the tribute to James.

She said there had been a huge outpouring of grief and they felt it was a way to bring the town together so people could share their feelings and pay respects to the “lovely young man who was a friend to so many.”

The candlelit celebration was led by the Reverend Andrew Clarke, the vicar of Holy Trinity and St Wilfrid’s Church in the town.

More than 700 people, many holding candles and releasing balloons, filled Bingley Market Square. A DJ and singers pounded out music from a truck stage, all donated for free. Organisers surprised the crowds at the end with fireworks and James’s name brightly lit up in flares.

Councillor Chapman added:”The turnout is amazing but no surprise - he was a much loved young man.”

On Saturday the Telegraph & Argus reported how the Bijou club had its licence suspended at the request of police after the owners received threats it would be burned down. A full review hearing is expected to take place next month but Bijou’s directors have announced their decision to permanently close the business.

Four men were arrested following the incident, with three aged 23, 30, and 31 being released under investigation and one, aged 28, released without charge. Anyone with any information is asked to call police on 101 quoting crime reference number 13170551254 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.