A community is in mourning after the sudden death of a much-loved dad.
Father-of-three Ewan Hitchell died at his home in Dalbeattie at the age of 45.
Prior to his death postie Ewan had been in training to take part in the Ultra Scotland 100-mile race in aid of charity.
He was taking on the challenge to raise funds for a defibrillator for Dalbeattie Star Youth Football Club where sons Cammy and Connor play.
And, since his passing on May 17, people have donated thousands of pounds to the cause meaning more of the life-saving pieces of kit can be bought for the club and the community.
Ewan’s brother-in-law, Stuart Mouat, said: “It has just exploded. It was sitting at £2,200 when we shared the news and since then it has gone up and up and is sitting at more than £8,000.
“He was a well known face around Dalbeattie, especially with him being a postie.
“There’s no doubt he would have smashed his 100 miles. He was feeling as fit as he ever has.”
Ewan lived in Dalbeattie all his life and was married to Jennifer with three children — Cammy, Connor and Izzy.
He retired as a retained fireman in December after more than 15 years and also worked as a postman.
Dalbeattie councillor and retired postie Davie Stitt said: “I worked alongside him for years. I’m deeply shocked and he will be missed. I think the whole town is reeling from it.”
Ewan was also a well-known footballer, having played for Threave Rovers and been with Dalbeattie Star when they faced league side East Stirlingshire in the Scottish Cup in 1999.
Star treasurer Kenny Murray said: “He will be sadly missed by everyone at Islecroft. If he wasn’t watching a game here with Cammy and Connor, he would be at Auchinleck as his dad was a big Auchinleck man.”
Ewan was inspired to take on his fundraising challenge after a defibrillator helped save the life of footballer Christian Eriksen when he collapsed during Denmark’s game against Finland at the European Championships last year.
And it was also a personal challenge as his dad Cammy had died while playing for Threave Rovers in 1986.
His initial aim was to raise £750 towards the £1,200 cost but quickly passed the £1,000 mark.
That prompted a new £2,200 target to be set in a bid to raise enough money for a second defibrillator.
Donations can still be made at www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/ewanhitchell
A service to celebrate Ewan’s life will take place in Dalbeattie Parish Church at noon on Saturday.
Everyone is welcome and those attending should dress in bright colours.
Stuart added: “Jen is keen for any extra money raised to go towards training people so they are confident in using defibrillators.”
