A "JOKEY" petition for a Gareth Southgate statue that went viral has evolved into a fundraiser for a hospice.

Dan Armstrong, who helps run the community group Spotted Crawley, came up with the idea for the Gareth Southgate statue during the 2018 World Cup finals.

He made a petition to try and get a statue built of Gareth Southgate, who is from Crawley. However, after England got knocked out, the petition was forgotten about.

Fast forward to the current Euros and the success of the England team. Dan decided to share the petition again ahead of the match against Germany, which England won 2-0.

The 38-year-old from Crawley said: "I thought I would create a bit of buzz ahead of the Germany match, and it got another 800 signatures, so it has doubled in size.

"After beating Germany, we have just ridden that wave and are pushing on with our plans.

"Since then, we have bought a cardboard cut-out and gone around the town taking photos in locations where the statue could be built.

"Originally, it was just a jokey thing, but I think it is beyond that now, especially if they go on and win the tournament.

"If they do win, then surely it would have to be considered. Even if it was a mural or plaque instead of a statue."

"Gareth deserves to be recognised for what he has done, and that is what I am hoping to do.

"I hope he has been made aware of our plans."

The Argus: Dan Armstrong from Crawley with his Gareth Southgate cut outDan Armstrong from Crawley with his Gareth Southgate cut out

England and Gareth Southgate are currently preparing to take on Denmark in the competition's semi-final on Wednesday.

If they win, they will face either Spain or Italy in the final.

After walking around the town with the cut-out of the Three Lions boss, Dan started a Justgiving page to raise money for St Catherine's Hospice.

"I had to involve a charity aspect to the whole thing, and St Catherine's Hospice is close to many people's hearts in this town.

"We just want to benefit the charity as much as we can."

So far, Dan has raised almost £1,600 for the charity through various fundraisers in the last year and hopes to raise more. He said: "Their team of experts are there for people in West Sussex and East Surrey when they need support the most.

"They rely on donations to be able to offer their pioneering care."

You can donate to the JustGiving page here: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/spottedchristmasraffle.