Popular fundraiser and karate expert dies of heart attack
‘Gentle giant’ raised thousands with partner
A man known as a ‘gentle giant’ collapsed in his garden and died after suffering from chest pains.
Martyn Sparrowhawk, 53, was a popular Maidstone character who, together with fiancée Moya raised thousands for charity, Breast Cancer Care.
He died suddenly after suffering heart failure on August 15.
Mr Sparrowhawk thought nothing of donning a costume as part of the annual Mad Hatter’s Tea Party, a charity event which catered cream teas for 200 guests.
The fundraiser was set up by Moya, 58, after her friend died of cancer aged 36.
Born in the West Kent Hospital, Martyn grew up in Maidstone. After attending St Simon Stock School he trained as a master butcher before turning his skills to painting and decorating.
A black belt in Karate and Judo, he represented England in competitions all over Europe during the 1980s. He also set up the Jester’s Scooter Club and was a well-known doorman.
But Martyn’s greatest pride was reserved for 15-year-old son Joseph who he raised singlehandedly.
Moya said: “He was exceptionally proud and thought the absolute world of his son.”
She described their four-year relationship as full of joy and happiness adding: “We loved life to the full.”
The couple, who lived in Fant Lane, Maidstone, got engaged two years ago and were planning to get married. Moya changed her surname to Sparrowhawk by deed poll.
They met at a friend’s party, with his fiancée adding: “We know all the same people and when we met that was it. We were so happy,” she said.
Mr Sparrowhawk’s passion for his family and friends was wellknown and he was regular at the Cherry Tree pub in Barming.
Affectionately known as the Gentle Giant he also loved being outside in his garden tending to his plants at their home in Fant Lane. Mr Sparrowhawk also leaves his parents, two sisters and three brothers.
The funeral is on Friday, September 9, at St Martin’s Church, Northumberland Road, Maidstone. The service starts at noon, with the burial at Maidstone Cemetery at 1.30pm. Donations to Breast Cancer Care.