Thousands raised for memorial bench to remember photographer Dean Matthews in Sunderland

Dean, who brought stunning pictures of Sunderland and the North East to thousands of people around the world, tragically died on Thursday, November 12, after testing positive for Covid-19.

Hundreds of tributes were paid to the Sunderland dad who has been described as a ‘lovely soul’ and an ‘exceptional photographer’.

Now a fundraiser, set up by fellow photographer, Liam McCormick, and husband, Michael McGrath, has raised more than £3,000 to go towards a memorial bench in one of the locations Dean was often spotted taking his stunning photographs.

Having originally set out to raise £1,500, the couple say they have been ‘overwhelmed’ by the support as a flood of donations meant more than double the original target had been raised in just 24 hours.

Any additional funds will be given to support Dean’s family.

Liam, 37, said: “Dean’s photographs are one of the inspirations behind my decision to take up photography. I’d often see him out and about around the city and he was always such a lovely guy and happy to offer tips.

"The news that he has passed away is absolutely devastating. I was speaking to my husband and he suggested a memorial bench for family and friends to be able to go reflect and remember him.

"The amount of donations the Just Giving page has received is unbelievable. He was such a lovely, family guy.

"I thought it would be nice to get a bench along Sunderland’s seafront where he often visited as a gesture from one photographer to another.”

Thirty-five-year-old Liam, who took up photography five years ago, is looking to speak to the Sunderland City Council next week regarding installing a bench near the Cat and Dog Steps.

Liam, of High Barnes, says the exact cost of a memorial bench has not been confirmed but says any remaining funds will go to Dean’s family.

Dean was a regular at the Stadium of Light and is described as having a ‘real passion and pride for Sunderland’.

Donate to the fundraiser www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/michaelliam-mcgrath

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