A fundraiser to support the family of a “brave” firefighter killed in a car crash has raised thousands.

Mark Hillier, a watch manager at Pewsey Fire Station, died when his Suzuki Grand Vitara collided with a BMW on the A345 in Pewsey on Thursday, October 12.

The 47-year-old, whose three dogs were also killed in the crash, had been responding to a fire call when the incident happened.

Firefighters at the Pewsey Fire Station have since launched a fundraiser on JustGiving to raise money for Mark’s wife Holly and his three children, Jaimee, Hayden, and Isla.

The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald: Mark Hillier with his family and on duty with DWFRSMark Hillier with his family and on duty with DWFRS (Image: Family handout)The campaign surpassed its target of £1,000 in just a few days, and over £8,500 had been donated at the time of writing.

Following Mark’s death, Holly released a heartfelt tribute to her “brave” husband who “saved countless lives” during his 28-year career.

She said: “We will be forever proud of you, as we knew you were of us. Your bravery, selflessness and countless lives saved will be remembered always.

“You will be forever celebrated and cherished. Mark, Dad, we love you wholeheartedly with everything we have. We miss you immensely. Until we meet again. Love you forever and always.”

The family has also encouraged those with pictures of Mark or stories about him to send them to remembering_mark@outlook.com.