THREE children whose father died after a battle with cancer will go on a safari holiday after a monumental effort by fundraisers.

Gary Keeys, 44, of Frinton, was diagnosed with lung cancer just before Christmas.

He was told he had just one year to live, but died last month after the cancer spread.

The popular learning support assistant at Tendring Technology College had three children – Gretta, 14, Ella, 11, and Reuben, nine.

When Gary’s friend, Natalie Wainwright, found out about his illness, she launched a sponsored halfironman challenge to raise cash for him to go on a holiday of a lifetime with his children.

Gary died before the challenge could be held, but fundraisers still took part to send the youngsters on holiday.

It involved a 1.2-mile swim, held at Walton pool, as well as a 56-mile bike ride and a 13.1-mile run, all done at the end of March.

Mrs Wainwright, who works at Walton pool, said: “It was an emotional time for all those who took part and Gary’s mum, dad, brother and sister-in-law were all there to cheer us on.”

Other workers at the Tendring Council-run pool also took part and a total of £4,500 was raised through sponsorship, as well as raffles, cake sales and an auction.

The children will go on the holiday later this year with their aunt and uncle.