Thousands of pounds has been collected in memory of a passionate West Ham fan and charity fundraiser after he died a week before his 60th birthday.

Walthamstow businessman Ray Graves is widely known for organising big events, often involving football and his beloved Hammers.

Ray owned Thames Roofing Supplies in the Old Station Yard, next to Wood Street Station, for around 20 years.

Mr Graves helped his brother David run the Fleet Street Press Charity before he and his friends set up CHUMS Charity.

He was described by friends as ‘big man with a big heart’.

On September 20, he was having a meal in a pub in Havering with his wife when he fell ill - just a week before his 60th birthday.

David said: “He was a legend. He was very successful with his roofing supplies firm. Everyone in the local area came to him.

“It just shows why 950 people came to his funeral. He has left a gap which nobody else could fill.

"Whenever he held an event hundreds of people would come from miles around.

"He charmed people like Rod Stewart, Tommy Walsh and Alvin Martin to give their time and effort.

"He was a big Road Stewart fan and he got him to go and play at West Ham for charity.”

Former West Ham player Geoff Pike wrote a tribute to his friend.

He said: “If you ever had the pleasure of meeting Ray you would never forget him. He was larger than life, and he lived life to the full, the life and soul of the party and a great friend.”

Shortly before he died, Mr Graves received an award from St Francis Hospice in Romford for being their most successful fundraiser.

Since his death, £4,000 has been raised for charity in his honour.

Ray leaves his wife Pat and four children, Georgina, Hannah, Connor and Emily.

See memories of Ray here.