FANS of acclaimed Bradford-born guitarist Allan Holdsworth, who died earlier this month, have helped raise more than $114,000 to pay for his funeral.

Mr Holdsworth died aged 70 on April 16 in California. He was revered by top musicians including Eddie Van Halen and Tom Morello for his guitar-playing ability and groundbreaking style and technique.

Following his death, a GoFundMe campaign was set up on behalf of his family to raise $20,000 to help cover funeral costs.

More than 2,500 people donated a total of $114,270 – more than five times the initial target – before the campaign was brought to an end by Mr Holdsworth’s family.

The appeal was set up by family friends Greg Beaton and Manning Bartlett.

A statement from Mr Holdsworth’s children, Louise, Emily and Sam Holdsworth, said it was “hard to put into words the emotions and gratitude” they felt.

They said: “Without all of the love and support we have received we would be completely lost.

“We are doing our best to fulfil the wishes of our beloved father.

“We will be holding a private ceremony to celebrate the life of our dad and we cannot thank you enough for allowing us to do that. We will be planning a public memorial in the coming weeks.

“I know he’s looking down at us and he can rest easy knowing the huge stress that has been lifted from our shoulders. Thank you for all the kind words, memories and donations. We have decided, as a family, to close the GoFundMe campaign. It has more than exceeded its purpose. We cannot express our gratitude to you all enough, it has been overwhelming.”

The family have also asked fans who still wish to donate to give to local pitbull rescue kennels, as that was Mr Holdsworth’s favourite breed of dog.

The fund was set up as despite his talent, Mr Holdsworth “died broke”, according to his daughter Louise.

She said: “People think dad was rich because he was ‘famous’.

“He refused to sell out, he only played what he wanted, and died broke because of it.”

In a 1986 interview, Mr Holdsworth said he struggled to pay his rent every month.

Mr Holdsworth’s career spanned five decades, and saw him release 12 studio albums, as well as collaborate with other artists on countless more.

He was highly influential in music circles, and was considered to be one of the most technically accomplished guitarists in the world.

Mr Bartlett, who helped to start the campaign, said: “We are ridiculously, incomprehensibly, stupefyingly grateful. Our dearest and beloved friend Allan will be buried with grace and respect. That is a kindness for which I have no words.”

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