Friends and regular patrons of The Old Post Office pub in Burslem have come together to raise funds in memory of Liam Smith, a 29-year-old doorman who died suddenly after suffering a seizure while working his shift. Smith, who had lived with epilepsy since the age of 13, passed away on August 29.

In response to his death, 16 of the pub’s regulars have organized a fundraising effort to support the Epilepsy Society and to install a defibrillator at the venue. The initiative aims to increase awareness of epilepsy and provide potentially life-saving equipment on site. Alyson Williams, one of the event organizers, explained that the defibrillator could help save lives, though she acknowledged there is no certainty it would have altered Smith’s outcome. “We’re not saying that it would have saved Liam – but it could have,” Williams said.

The fundraising event scheduled for this week at The Old Post Office includes a raffle, an auction, karaoke, and live performances by local musicians Sam Bloor and Blindsided. Williams emphasized the close-knit atmosphere of the pub community and their determination to honor Smith’s memory. “He was all our friend. He was lovely, the most kind soul who would go out of his way to help you,” she said, adding that the tragedy has strengthened their commitment to raising awareness about epilepsy.

According to the Epilepsy Society, more than 600,000 people live with epilepsy in the United Kingdom, yet public understanding of the condition remains limited. Williams noted that many people were unaware of Smith’s epilepsy prior to his death, highlighting the lack of visibility and recognition for the disease compared to conditions like cancer and strokes. “There’s not enough awareness, you see pictures up to raise awareness for cancer, breast cancer, leukaemia, and strokes and there’s little for epilepsy. It’s a silent killer,” she explained.

The fundraiser also plans to establish an annual epilepsy test in Smith’s memory to further promote education and support. Williams described Liam as a well-liked individual with a distinctive personality and passion for rock music. “He was such a lovely lad, quirky, and there are not many of them about,” she said, adding that his parents should be proud.

An inquest into Liam Smith’s death was opened and adjourned earlier this week as the community continues to mourn.