A FUNDRAISER has been launched to install a defibrillator and bench in memory of a popular man who died suddenly at a gym.

Paul Whitehouse passed away at TruGym at Weaver's Wharf, Kidderminster, after suffering a heart attack in March. 

Tributes came flooding in for the 51-year-old, who has been described as a "kind" and "caring" man with a "keen passion for weightlifting."

His nephew, Wyre Forest District Councillor Leigh Whitehouse, has now started an appeal to raise money for a publicly accessible defibrillator to be placed outside TruGym and a memorial bench.

Kidderminster Shuttle: Flowers for Paul Whitehouse at his funeral serviceFlowers for Paul Whitehouse at his funeral service (Image: Leigh Whitehouse)

As part of the GoFundMe appeal, councillor Whitehouse said: "Paul passed away suddenly whilst at TruGym in Kidderminster in the early afternoon of Saturday 30th March 2024, he was just 51.

"Paramedics tried to save him but after an hour of trying to bring him back, unfortunately, had to stop.

"Members of our family rushed to him but upon our arrival he was already gone.

"Paul, or ‘Widda’ as he was known by friends, was a much loved and popular person. He was kind, caring and liked to live an uncomplicated life.

"Paul spent much of his time in the gym, a place he loved, he had a real passion for weightlifting and would often be seen with his gym belt still on".

Kidderminster Shuttle: Hundreds paid their respects on the day of his funeralHundreds paid their respects on the day of his funeral (Image: Leigh Whitehouse)

The page has already raised more than £300.

A funeral was held for Paul Whitehouse on Friday, May 10, at St George’s Church in Kidderminster, with more than 300 people attending.

People were invited to wear something red to the service, to symbolise Liverpool FC, the football team Mr Whitehouse loved.