Strangers raise thousands for Tunisia beach hero

Amidst the horror of the terrorist attack on Sousse beach in Tunisia on Friday, news has emerged of one man, who was shot after he threw himself in front of his fiancée to protect her from the gunman. One man was so moved by his actions that he set up a crowdfunding campaign, and the response shows just how much his story has touched people.

Matthew James, a 30 year-old gas engineer from Trehafod in South Wales, was shot three times - in the chest, shoulder and hip - as he protected his partner Saera Wilson. The 26-year-old beautician told the press that Matthew took a bullet for her, and then told her: "I love you babe. But just go – tell our children that their daddy loves them."

The couple had taken a break away from their family, but have now been flown back to Wales. Matthew's family issued a statement saying: "Mathew is currently in a stable and comfortable condition – and he and his fiancée Saera are doing well, and are happy to be back in the UK. They wish to thank all of the medical teams in both Tunisia and the UK for all of their professional assistance, care and support. They would also like to thank everyone involved in ensuring their safe return to the UK and the support shown by family, friends and the public."
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Crowdfunding

His story touched people, who saw true bravery emerge from hideous violence. A group of gas engineers decided to channel support for the couple into a way of helping them, so they set up a crowdfunding page. They wrote: "We understand Matthew and Saera, who have 2 young children, Tegan, 6 and Kaden who is 14 months, are getting married in 2017, so I'm hoping all the money raised will make a positive impact on their lives."

At the time of writing, over 900 strangers had raised more than £12,500 for the couple, and the donations continue. Some people have added comments such as: "Your bravery moved me to tears. Wishing you a full and speedy recovery. You are a hero!", and "What an inspiration! A true hero in every sense of the word. The least the nation can do is pay for your wedding day."

Shortly after the page was set up, Matthew's mum added her comment: "I just want you all to know we are overwhelmed by your kindness and support, Mathew (aka Sas the gas) has a long road ahead of him in his recovery and you amazing, caring people will help ease the worry for himself and his family. We can't thank you enough for what you have all done. Our prayers go out to all those who lost their lives, their families and the others who were injured. God bless you all."

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