Thousands raised for family of farmer killed in accident

More than £45,000 has been raised for the family of farmer Chris Murton, who died following a farming accident aged just 41.

The fundraising appeal had reached around £45,000 as of Monday 10 August, with donations intended to support his partner Carys and their five young children.

Chris died suddenly on Monday 20 July, leaving behind Carys, his partner of 20 years, and children aged 14, 10, nine, six and four.

The GoFundMe appeal was established by a family member to help ease the financial impact of his death following the loss of the family’s main provider.

It will also help towards giving Chris a fitting send-off and supporting Carys and the children in the months ahead.

Chris had dedicated his working life to agriculture, with his family describing farming as far more than simply his occupation.

He was remembered as “humble, hardworking and selfless”.

His family said his five children were at the centre of everything he did, with his long working days and sacrifices focused on providing for them.

They said Chris would often remark that, regardless of the pressures he had faced during a day at work, what mattered most was knowing all of his children were safely home at night.

Outside farming, he enjoyed spending time with his family as well as shooting and fishing.

Whether working in the fields or spending time at home, his family said he was happiest surrounded by the people and way of life he loved.

The fundraiser said his sudden death had left a profound impact on everyone who knew him, particularly Carys and their children.

The organiser said: “No amount of money could ever ease the pain of losing a husband, father, son, brother or friend.”

They said the purpose of the appeal was to ease some of the financial pressure on the family while helping them adjust following Chris’s death.

Those unable to make a donation have been encouraged to share the fundraiser and keep the Murton family in their thoughts.

The response has seen the appeal raise more than £45,000 by 10 August as supporters rally around the family.

Paying tribute to Chris, his family said: “You will be forever loved and never forgotten.”