In the wake of a "devastating" biking accident in Spain, the community of Kenilworth has come together to provide much-needed support for the family of Phil Swain, a "beloved" landscape gardener and tree surgeon.

Phil lost his life on Friday 9 February while on a biking tour of Portugal and Spain when his bike was swept away by the current while attempting to cross a flooded road.

Despite an intense four-hour search by emergency services, Phil's body was found downstream.

Moved by the loss of this much-loved father of two, his sister, Caroline, and a group of Phil's close friends rallied round to support the family.

One of the group, Wayne Campbell, suggested launching a fundraiser on GoFundMe to assist financially.

Many of Phil's clients have come foward to contribute to the GoFundMe page (image supplied)

In a heartfelt message, Wayne commented: "Phil was a cherished figure within the community.

"His passions were for motorbiking, snowboarding, and the great outdoors, as well as his dedication to his family and profession as a landscape gardener and tree surgeon."

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Reflecting on Phil's popularity and the sudden and tragic nature of this accident, Wayne emphasised that the fund aims not only to provide immediate assistance to Phil's family but also to facilitate the recovery of outstanding payments for Phil's work in the area.

The response from Phil's clients so far has been incredibly supportive, with many coming forward to settle outstanding debts.

Phil had just celebrated his 50th birthday and leaves two children, Harrison (age 16) and Scarlett (age 15) who join his friends in being overwhelmed with the level of support and response from his customers.

Phil was a 'cherished figure within the community' (image supplied)

Friends and family are sincerely touched by the number of warm messages on the fundraiser already.

The group encourages everyone touched by Phil's life to contribute to the GoFundMe, which will be kept updated to provide details of the funeral arrangements for those wishing to pay their respects.

Friends and family said the outpouring of support demonstrates the "profound impact Phil had on his community and the collective desire to honour his memory".

For further information and to contribute to the fundraiser, please visit the GoFundMe page.

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