Hundreds of pounds have been donated to Severn Hospice in tribute to a West End actor who died in our care.

Richard Swerrun received end-of-life care at our hospice in Bicton, Shrewsbury.

He was known for playing Joseph in Bill Kenwright’s popular production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat across the UK.

Richard will be remembered as ‘an amazing friend, actor, singer and all round nice guy’ by close friend Tanith Messenger.

Stars of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat are coming together for a special show at Theatre Severn to mark the 50th anniversary of the hit musical.

The Shrewsbury date on September 6 will celebrate the life of Richard while raising money to help us fund our care. 

To buy tickets click here. 

Tanith, from Cyprus, has launched a Just Giving page in tribute to Richard, which has raised more than £272 to help us fund care for families who need us in the future.

She said: “Over the years he has made us laugh, cry, see ourselves in a different light, given us comfort and help or just pure entertainment.

“You could never be around Richard without feeling happy when you left.

“During his last few weeks he was given the most amazing care by the staff at Severn Hospice and I wanted to help raise money as a way to thank them for the love and support they gave both Richard and his partner David.

“The hospice provides care for so many and without them hard times would be even harder.”

Richard, originally from Worcester, died of cancer on 8 January, aged 57.

Bill Kenwright, who is also known for his role as chairman of Everton Football Club, paid tribute to him on social media.

He said: “One of our greatest ever Josephs – one of our greatest ever boys – he was a celebration on legs. We salute him.”

Anyone who would like to make a donation in memory of Richard click here. 

Pictured: Tanith when she first met Richard in 1990 (right) and with Richard in 2000 (top)