A KIND-HEARTED businessman has pledged to lend the family of a stroke victim the money to fly him home.

John Fillingham’s family made a desperate appeal last week for the £15,000 they need to pay for an air ambulance to fly him home after he suffered a stroke on the last day of his holiday.

The father-of-two, of Plank Lane, Leigh, is currently been treated in a hospital in Tarragona, Spain, but he could be back home as soon as this weekend thanks to the mystery benefactor.

The 51-year-old’s best friend, David Connor, said: “A businessman contacted the family through a third party and offered to lend them the money to fly John home.

“We are so desperate to get him back, his sister Anne was starting to consider getting several loans to pay the cost but this gentleman, who wants to keep his identity quiet, has offered her an interest-free loan.

“We need to carry on fundraising but this means we could get him home as early as this weekend as long as he is cleared to fly.”

John was on holiday with his two daughters, 15-year-old Alisha and 10-year-old Charlie, when he suffered a serious stroke on May 28.

“We would like to thank everyone who has donated so far but ask can people please spread the word so we can reach the target,” David said.

“John is out of intensive care now and breathing on his own but he still can’t speak and he is in and out of consciousness.

“He is trying really hard but we won’t know what damage the stroke has done until he properly comes round.”

His family and friends have organised two fundraising events, a fun day on July 5 from noon until 6pm and a quiz night on July 12 from 6pm onwards, both at Higher Folds Labour Club.

To find out more, visit the help get John home Facebook page.