A BOROUGH community has rallied round to help a stalwart member who has been diagnosed with a terminal illness.

Terry Gilling was diagnosed with cancer just a few weeks ago and his life expetancy is limited, possibly down to just a couple more weeks.

That news was shared with the local community in East Tilbury by friends who have launched a fund to support him and ensure that future costs are met.

A fundraising page on social media has already raised more than £3,000 and more than 100 messages of support and good wishes.

Mr Gilling is a long time resident in East Tilbury, where he has been particularly known for his work as a DJ at The George and Dragon and at the Dickens Bar.

Among the many tributes, one resident summed him up by saying: "He is a lovely kind hearted man who would do anything for anyone."

The fundraising page can be accessed via this link.