Fundraiser to save Codicote family’s home after loving father dies

Ben Macdonald passed away unexpectedly at the age of 35. Picture: supplied by Matthew Macdonald (Image: supplied by Matthew Macdonald)

Ben and Erin Macdonald were due to celebrate their second wedding anniversary in May this year, but just over two weeks ago a sudden and unexplained health issue took the loving husband and father away.

35-year-old father of two, Ben, had saved for years to be able to afford a home in the village of Codicote where he grew up and where his parents have lived for over 40 years.

After years of saving, he, Erin, and their two children proudly moved into their own home there just five months ago.

A full-time mum, Erin faces the remaining mortgage payments of £198,000 and the possibility of having to remove their children from Codicote C of E Primary school should the family be unable to afford it.

35-year-old Ben was to celebrate his second wedding anniversary to Erin this year. Picture: supplied by Matthew Macdonald (Image: supplied by Matthew Macdonald)

Now Ben’s brother and sister Matthew, 37, and Kym, 33, have launched a gofundme to help cover the mortgage.

It has already raised over £33,000.

Matthew said: “It’s just been overwhelming. It’s unbelievable, when people pull together.

“No-one wants them to move out of the village.”

Ben's family are fundraising to ensure that his wife can stay in the family home in Codicote. Picture: supplied by Matthew Macdonald (Image: supplied by Matthew Macdonald)

Ben’s early death has come as a deep shock to everyone who knew him.

The village plumber, Ben, or “Benny”, was a familiar friend to many, and over 200 people followed his hearse through the streets last Thursday when his family held a service in celebration of his life.

All the shops and pubs closed in honour of the procession.

“I used to look up to him,” said Matthew, explaining how his younger brother was the one who inspired him to become an electrician.

“He didn’t have hobbies, he wasn’t into music, but one thing he was into was other people, being a friend and making people laugh.”

Matthew summed him up on the gofundme page: “Ben was the go-to man, the village hero.”

Ben was taken to the Lister hospital on Sunday March 18 after Erin found him unconscious in bed.

Tragically, life support was switched off two days later.

Doctors are still trying to establish the cause of death.

To support the gofundme, visit www.gofundme.com/bennie039s