Family of Haywards Heath murder victim raising money for funeral costs

Jimmy was just 29 years old when he was tragically killed four days before Christmas last year and nine days before his 30th birthday.

Craig Ghochani, 29, showed no emotion as the jury convicted him of killing Jimmy at Lewes Crown Court on September 30.

More than 100 people attended Jimmy’s funeral. Women laid pink roses on his coffin and men laid their pink ties.

In the wake of Jimmy’s tragic death, a memorial fundraising page was set up by Jimmy’s next of kin Lorraine Blunden and James to help recover outstanding funeral costs.

Lorraine said: “So it’s been a sad year for family, close relatives and the community with the death of Jimmy and the court case.

“As a community we are happy to reflect on the positives in this. We have been racking our brains in regards to the final payment of Jimmy’s funeral costs and headstones for Jimmy and his mother Judith.

“The community and individuals have made a massive impact on helping to raise money, and for the bench in memory of Jimmy.

“We could not ask for a penny more, so myself, Amy Reed, Charlie Bancroft, and Connor Peters, Jimmy’s nephew, are happy to announce that on the 6th, 13th and 20th of December, we will be holding a stall in The Orchards for one last push to get Jimmy buried and the funeral bill paid off, and headstones in place.

“We will be doing face painting, mystery gifts and raffle prizes, that have been yet again donated from local shops and the community.

“We are not here to open bad memories or negative feelings towards any families that have been involved sadly with Jimmy’s death.

“This is a new chapter for everyone. And we hope we can start the new year with a place we can all go to see Jimmy and Judy together at last.

“We will be looking forward to doing the stall and welcome all. And we wish are beautiful community a merry Christmas.”

All donations will be going towards a food shop for the local food bank to support families in need over the festive period.