GRIEVING family and friends of a popular dad who was knocked down and killed by a police car have united to ensure he gets the funeral he deserves.

Aston Mclean’s loved ones hosted a special fundraising event at the African Caribbean Centre, in St Mary’s to help raise funds for his final farewell and his two young children who have been left without their loving dad.

From bouncy castles to face painting and live music from DJ TC, there was something for everyone as they honoured Aston’s memory.

As previously reported, the 28-year-old was killed when he was hit by a marked police 4x4 as officers responded to reports of a burglary at a motorcycle store in August.

The IPCC have launched an investigation into the incident – which also saw a police officer injured – leaving his family waiting for the chance to bury him.

His grieving dad Neil and members of his family, who proudly wore T-shirts with Aston’s name emblazoned on the front, were thrilled that the day raised just over £800.

The money will be used to pay for his funeral and to support his children Dejan, 10, and four-year-old Jodice.

Dad Neil, a taxi driver from St Mary’s, said: “It went brilliantly. Everyone enjoyed it and there was no trouble.

“I’d like to thank everyone from the bottom of my heart for supporting us – I feel humbled by it.”

Thames Valley police had been responding to reports of a burglary when Aston was hit in Wokingham Road, Reading.

Aston, a construction worker, grew up in Southampton and moved to Reading with his mother, but he was frequently back in the city visiting Neil and his siblings.

Neil added: “We are still devastated – we haven’t got his body back yet and we still want answers. We just want to be put at ease.

“It was nice to see the community come together to support me and my family – the generosity has been brilliant.”

“I particularly like to thank Tony and Bernice for cooking in the kitchen, DJ TC for providing music for free, and I’d like to thank my partner Tracy Peever.”

Neil also thanked East Horton Golf Club, Marwell Hotel, Commercial News, Southampton Football Club, and African Caribbean Centre for their support.