Friends and colleagues remember David Thorp

David Thorp, who led Petty Commercial's Manchester office until his death earlier this year, has been remembered at a fundraising lunch.

Thorp died after falling down an embankment near his home at Norden, Rochdale. He was 43.

More than 50 people celebrated his life at the event at the Mark Addy pub in Salford.

An auction raised around £1,000 for the charity, Sparks, which carries out medical research into children's health and medical conditions.

Phil Kelly, a partner at the chartered surveyor, said: "This event was very much all about David, down to the venue, food choices and his much loved Manchester United.

"We were thrilled to have his wife Kos with us and the many people that turned up to show their support. David was a true asset to Petty's but most importantly a great friend and he is certainly missed by everyone who knew him whether that was on a personal note or as a business colleague."

Nia Williams, regional fundraising co-ordinator for Sparks in the North West, said: "Sadly, in the UK, one in 30 babies are born with a medical condition which may affect them for life.

"Our goal is for every child to be born healthy and stay healthy and the wonderful funds raised by everyone who attended the lunch will help us to continue our pioneering medical research and enable us to touch the lives of those children who need our help."

Thorp joined Petty from Lambert Smith Hampton in 2009.