Unauthorised GoFundMe for Darren’s Barbers taken down

A GoFundMe page was launched to support Darren Southworth, 57, owner of Darren’s Barbers on Lee Lane in Horwich, whose shop was badly damaged when a car crashed into the building in the early hours of Saturday, February 7.

The shop was left boarded up due to the scale of the damage, prompting a show of support from the community and neighbouring businesses.

However, Mr Southworth later used Facebook to clarify that the fundraiser had not been set up with his consent.

He said: “I haven’t authorised any GoFundMe or fundraising on my behalf.

Darren’s Barbers is on 14 Lee Ln, Horwich, Bolton BL6 7BY (Image: Ruby Watson)

“I’ve asked the organiser to close it and return all donations.

“I’m genuinely grateful to the organiser, whom I don’t think I know and I don’t recognise from her photos, and for the thought behind it and for everyone who has already donated so kindly.

“I do have insurance in place, and I’m hopeful it will cover the financial losses once everything is processed.

“Please do not donate further.

“I have contacted GoFundMe to try to get this stopped because this does not feel necessary when I have shop insurance.

“Thank you again for the kindness and generosity you have all shown.

“I am extremely grateful.

“Your continued support and kind messages are enough.”

GoFundMe confirmed the fundraiser has now been removed and that no funds were released.

A spokesperson for the fundraising platform said: “The fundraiser was removed by the organiser.

“No funds were released and all donors will be refunded.”

Despite the misunderstanding, Mr Southworth has been touched by the support shown by the Horwich community.

Darren Southworth, owner of Darren’s Barbers (Image: Darren Southworth)

Nearby barbers have offered him a chair so he can continue working until his shop is repaired.

Well-wishers have also sent him messages of encouragement and support.

The crash itself remains under investigation.

Greater Manchester Police have confirmed that the collision resulted in life-threatening injuries, though there were no fatalities.

As Mr Southworth waits for repairs to his shop, he remains hopeful that his insurance will cover the majority of the damage.