A former weekly newspaper editor has thanked strangers for raising funds after the death of her circus performer nephew at a music festival.

Margery Hookings, who edited the Bridport and Lyme Regis News for almost six years, has spoken out after the tragedy which claimed 27-year-old Ashton Launcherley’s life at Glastonbury.

Ashton, pictured above left, was found doused with petrol and engulfed in flames at last month’s festival, which he had attended annually since he was a teenager.

He was airlifted to hospital but died the following day after suffering severe burns to his body, inhalation injury and organ failure.

Now strangers have donated thousands of pounds to help his family pay for transportation of his body and funeral costs.

An online fundraising page set up by strangers to the family has raised £3,000 alone.

Freelance writer Margery, who edited the News between 1998 and 2004, told the Dorset Echo: “It’s all so tragic. I have been in touch with my sister and her family, who are doing the best they can.

“It’s going to cost £500 alone to transport my nephew’s body to Somerset from Birmingham so the Crowdfunding donations will make a huge difference. I’d like to thank everyone so much. The boy had so much to live for.”

“The sensitivity of the people on the festival field was amazing. Before the helicopter arrived, he was attended by first aiders who loved him and hugged him and talked to him.

“There have also been innumerable tributes to him and of his skills from his Facebook friends which have been touching. We still continue to be completely overwhelmed by the kindness of family, friends and strangers.”

An inquest into Mr Launcherley’s death has been opened and adjoured. Taunton coroner Dr Tony Williams said there were no suspicious circumstances.