WORK to help a terminally ill Great Totham builder spend his last Christmas with his family was completed just in time.

Peter Cross, 51, of Staplers Heath, was diagnosed with a brain tumour in November last year.

After undergoing surgery and chemotherapy he found out his condition was terminal and the doctors gave him between 12 and 14 months to live.

His wife, Nicola, 41, and children Amie, 14, and James, 11, set up a fundraising page to raise money to build an extension that would let Mr Cross live at home.

Following a plea for volunteers from the family, Chelmsford based builder Chris Whittle offered his services to help finish the job for Christmas.

Mr Whittle, who runs CAW building services, began work at the start of the month and managed to finish the project, which included the kitchen, porch, cloakroom and wet room in time for the family to spend their last Christmas together.

He said: “It’s been absolutely sensational the last few weeks, the amount of donations and support we’ve had has been incredible.

“One builder came by one day to see what was going on, saw the project and said he wanted to donate the new garden gate, dishwasher and other kitchen appliances with no charge, which was sensational.

“There’s been builders, workers and volunteers going in and out of the house constantly every day, with every single one putting their heart into it.”

The speed of the work meant that the family were able to enjoy Christmas dinner together in the new extension, which is what it was all about for the volunteers.

Mr Whittle added: “It was great that Peter was able to relax at home with his family for what will be their final Christmas together.

“They have a log fire, kitchen, lounge and full house to enjoy. This is better than any job I’ve ever done, and to know they were happy together for Christmas in their own home is an amazing feeling.

“There is a little bit of paintwork left to do, but the majority is completely finished. I am so proud of everybody.”