Rik Mayall fanpage raises thousands for charity Headway

Following the recent of death of British comedy legend Rik Mayall, a group of dedicated Facebook fans have taken it upon themselves to set up a JustGiving page in the actor’s name. Titling their campaign ‘Flash your Cash for Rik’, they were only looking to raise a grand – but have already raised more than ten times that amount.

“He was a true original, livewire, genius who touched many lives and generations of comedy fans all over the world,” reads the page. “He was, and will continue to be, adored and missed by his family and his many fans forever.”

All money raised through the page will be going to Headway, a charity that works with those who have suffered brain injuries, helping to improve life for them and their families. In 1998, Mayall was in a coma for several days after an accident involving a quad bike that left him with a fractured skull and two haematomas.

“…we thought this charity was an appropriate recipient to receive donations in Rik’s memory,” continues the page. “We are doing this to celebrate Rik’s life and to ensure that he continues to bring joy to the lives of others, even after he has gone.”

Tributes for Mayall, who was famous for his work on such beloved television shows as The Young Ones, Bottom and Blackadder, have been rolling in, including from his long-time comedy partner Adrian Edmondson.

“There were times when Rik and I were writing together when we almost died laughing.” said Edmondson. “They were some of the most carefree stupid days I ever had, and I feel privileged to have shared them with him. And now he’s died for real. Without me. Selfish bastard.”

A post mortem examination failed to determine Mayall’s actual cause of death, but according to his wife Barbara Robbin it was ‘an acute cardiac event’ following the actor’s regular run.

At the time of writing, the campaign has raised £13,586.16. To find out more and donate, head over to the Flash your Cash for Rik JustGiving page.