A series of fundraising events held in memory of local pool hall legend 'Mick the Machine' have raised nearly £2000 for ellenor hospice care.

Michael Caller, of Queens Road, Gravesend was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a cancer of the marrowbone.

The former transport manager spent three months in hospital recovering from surgery to remove a large tumour, had to learn to walk again and underwent two rounds of chemotherapy.

After a long battle Michael passed away surrounded by his family and friends on 19 August aged 50. His funeral was held on September 20.

His family wanted to thank the local Ellenor branch at Coldharbour Road, Gravesend for their support in Michael's final years and grouped together to hold a series of fundraisers.

Michael cut a popular figure in Gravesend and had various nicknames to his friends, including 'Bacardi Mick', 'Jobby' and his most famous, 'Mick the Machine'.

A keen pool player, Michael was a champion of the Gravesend pool league and even represented Kent.

It seemed only fitting therefore a pool tournament be held in his honour.

Michael's mum, Pauline Davis, sister Julie Squires, with the support of family and friends, arranged a pool tournament on 4 September at the Spots and Stripes pool bar in New Road.

They hired out six pool tables for the evening which the landlord let them have for free and also held a raffle and game of bingo.

Mike was well known on the local pool circuit and would frequent various pubs, including the Three Daws, the Elephant's Head and the Forester's Arms which donated prizes for the raffle.

In total, 18 charity boxes were distributed to local pubs and the pool event itself raised £1,268.

Additional fundraisers were held to coincide with the event including two sponsored walks (£375), a funeral box (£215) and £338 which was raised separately by Michael's son, Liam.

Sue Weedon, a family member who helped organise the pool event said: "We will continue to support ellenor hospice who did such great work for Michael.

"He was well loved by all those who knew him in the local snooker halls and in many of the town's pubs."

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