Community unites to celebrate life of homeless man

Members of the public who knew Chad, or Martin Pollock, from Morecambe, and friends, as well as representatives from the police and the fire service, attended his funeral at the Lancaster and Morecambe Crematorium last Thursday.

The minister told funeral goers that Chad was also known as Charles, Chadco or Martin Pollock.

He was originally from London.

In a statement read out at the funeral by the minister, Chad’s family said he came up to Morecambe from London suited and booted.

The minister said no-one knew how he ended up as he did but that he had a ‘troubled heart’.

Chad’s family didn’t attend the funeral but sent flowers which were placed next to his coffin.

People were given a minute’s silence to remember him in their own way and how he had touched their lives. The Lord’s Prayer was said by everyone.

A crowdfunding page set up by a local business owner, Helen Sharples, has raised £1,390 which will go towards a plaque at the crematorium to remember Chad.

Any funds left over will be donated to St Barnabas’ Church which helps the homeless and Wolfwood animal charity who helped out with Chad’s dog Misty.

Speaking after the funeral, Helen Sharples said: “It was a very nice service and I’m pleased that plenty turned up for Chad. Everyone who turned up for the funeral cared for Chad.

“After the plaque is paid for, I should think both charities will get a couple of hundred pounds each.

“The flowers from the people of Morecambe are outside Vanilla hair and beauty if anyone would like to come and see them, and other people’s flowers are outside West End Discounts on Regent Road.

Chad’s plaque will soon be put up at Lancaster and Morecambe Crematorium.