THE death of former Hull FC fullback Steve Prescott MBE from cancer has sparked a massive surge in donations to his charity foundation.
Married father-of-two Mr Prescott, 39, died on November 9 last year, seven years after he was diagnosed with pseudomyxoma, a rare form of stomach cancer.
In 2008, the sportsman, helped by his supporters, set up the Steve Prescott Foundation to help good causes close to his heart and inspire people.
Despite his illness, Mr Prescott led several high-profile fundraising challenges, including marathons and swims.
Since January, more than £120,000 has rolled into the charity – beating the record of £118,000 for a 12-month period.
Martin Blondel, the foundation's secretary and a close friend of Mr Prescott's, said: "It's testament to Steve and his character that so much has been raised since his death.
"I believe a lot of people failed to realise just how ill Steve was, and how much pain he was in, until after his death.
"Now people realise how much courage and determination he showed, they really want to get fully involved in the foundation.
"Taking planned, forthcoming events into account, I anticipate by the end of the year we will have raised between £180,000 and £190,000."
Since the foundation was launched, about £640,000 has been raised, with £520,000 of it having already been paid out.
The money has been split between Christie Hospital in Manchester, where Mr Prescott received treatment, and the Rugby Football League Benevolent Fund.
Mr Blondel said: "Prior to his death, Steve requested that we also support Oxford Intestinal Transplant Unit, which of course we are now doing."
Although Mr Prescott, who died in hospital in Oxford, was the face of many challenges, he was reserved, according to friends.
Mr Blondel said: "Steve was a remarkably humble man. He would be a bit embarrassed, but so proud, that the foundation is doing so well, with money continuing to pour in.
"Steve really did hate being the centre of attention, but he did what he did to inspire others.
"He was the most selfless person I have ever met.
"Above all, Steve wanted to show people that you can never give in to cancer.
"Ultimately, I believe he beat cancer because of the legacy he left."
Mr Blondel revealed Mr Prescott's autobiography, billed as a "must-read" for rugby league fans, will be published in August.
"It is an incredible read," he said. "Steve was a perfectionist. I assure you, there were several drafts.
"It was 98 per cent finished when Steve went into hospital in Oxford.
"His wife, Linzi, has written the final chapter."
