Hundreds celebrate life of MND fundraiser

People gathered at his funeral described John Adams, who died at 79, as a lovely man with a "million dollar smile"

Hundreds have gathered in Droitwich to celebrate the life of a man who raised thousands for charity after being diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND).

"MND Warrior" John Adams, from Worcestershire, died on 29 February at the age of 79.

His funeral started at St Augustine's Church in Dodderhill at 11:00 GMT, with many watching the service on a large screen outside.

Well-wishers described Mr Adams as a lovely and inspirational man with "a million dollar smile".

The funeral cortege passed along Droitwich High Street towards St Augustine's Church in Dodderhill

Others gathered at Droitwich Rugby Club, which also broadcast the service.

Mr Adams dedicated his life to raising money and awareness for the Motor Neurone Disease Association (MNDA) following his own diagnosis in 2017.

He gained more than 10,000 followers on X (formerly known as Twitter), where he became known as "Sir John".

Initially given a life expectancy of just 12 to 18 months, he surpassed all expectations.

Donations to his fund for the MNDA now total almost £25,000.

Paul Adams paid tribute to his father during the funeral service

Paul Adams delivered a eulogy to his father during the service and said afterwards "the love that was inside the church today was amazing".

He said his dad had been up for anything to raise money and awareness.

"He didn’t want to just be a shrinking violet," he said. "He’d melt anybody with that cheeky smile."

The family intended to continue his fundraising legacy and reach a target of £50,000, Paul added.

Fellow Baggies fans Harry Taylor and Bill Smith paid tribute to Mr Adams, a lifelong West Bromwich Albion supporter

A lifelong fan of West Bromwich Albion, Mr Adams' family invited attendees to wear Baggies' shirts to the funeral.

In a statement following his death, the football club described him as an "inspiring man".

Harry, who met him at a Baggies Buddies hub said: "That million dollar smile would light up the room and he was absolutely inspirational. Everybody loved him, he was just a wonderful man."

A former Wychbold village football team manager, Mr Adam's players also attended the funeral to pay their respects.

"[He was an] absolute fantastic guy and even better manager and he will sadly missed by everyone involved with Wychbold football club,” said Noel.

Sean added he was the “most successful manager Wychbold’s had”.

Writing on X, Mr Adam's family thanked well-wishers for messages of love and support, which they said had "touched us all".