COLLEAGUES of a popular former Gourock Co-op manager who has terminal cancer rallied to raise thousands of pounds for a charity close to his heart.

David Pope — who was boss of the Shore Street shop — has been struck down with a terminal form of the disease and had to give up work around three years ago.

But he was determined to do whatever he could to raise money for the Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre and even took part in a charity cycle around Cumbrae in the summer.

That event, as well as individual collections taken at Co-op branches including Cardwell Road, Eldon Street, Dubbs Road, Dunoon, Dalry and Inveraray, has realised a terrific total of more than £3,000.

Despite his illness, David bravrely joined in with a celebration of the achievement at the Shore Street shop along with current manager George Barnes and friends from all of the stores involved in the successful effort.

George said: "I have known David for 36 years and a lot of the others have known him for a long time as well.

"This effort was close to all of our hearts and we just wanted to do him proud.

"David was actually part of the cycle ride during the summer but two or three weeks ago he was sadly told that there is no more that the Beatson can do for him."

George said staff were delighted to see David at the presentation of the cheque.

He added: "David was behind the fundraising drive because he wanted to do whatever he could for the cause.

"I didn't think he would be able to attend the cheque event in the store but he was determined to be here, and we were all glad that he came."