A raffle in memory of Ramsgate dad Paul Butters has raised a brilliant amount for charity

Photo Chris Constantine

A raffle held in memory of Ramsgate musician Paul Butters has raised £1083 for charity.

Paul, 37, was found dead on Sunday, August 27 at a property in Wellington Crescent, Ramsgate.

The former Ravensgate Arms employee was the father of 16-year-old Taiyah Peebles who died on railway tracks at Herne Bay station in July.

Former Chatham House pupil Paul was well-known in many venues throughout Thanet, particularly for being a part of local bands and for his artwork.

Paul’s portrait by artist and friend Dean Samed

His death was met with a concerted community effort to raise funds for mental health charity Mind.

The raffle, organised by County Councillor Karen Constantine, launched on the first pop-up reopening night of the Ravensgate Arms, which dedicated the evening to Paul’s memory.

Thirty-six prizes were donated, ranging from beer and spirits to art, crafts, a ukele and a month’s business advertising.

One of the donations Photo Chris Constantine

The draw took place at the Vinyl Head Café in Addington Street today (September 4). All winners have been contacted and prizes will be stored at the café for collection for the next two weeks.

Any unclaimed prizes will then be re-raffled. To collect a prize, take your winning ticket with you to the café.

Karen (left) at the Ravensgate opening night Photo Chris Constantine

Organiser Karen Constantine said ” I have been overwhelmed with people’s absolute generosity. To raise this amount in just a few days is amazing and a fitting tribute to a much loved guy. Many many thanks to all those who donated, helped, produce ‘vouchers’ or who bought raffle tickets. All proceeds will now be donated to MIND. “

The Ravensgate Arms is due to re-open properly around September 15.

The King Street boozer shut on May 20 after Thanet council revoked its licence but has now been taken on by former landlord Roger Bell, who initially opened the venue in 2014.

Photo Chris Constantine

He has been joined in the venture by  Eddie Gadd of GADDS’ Ramsgate Brewery  who will be providing his beers and Kiki Case who will be in charge of food and wine