TRIBUTES have continued to pour in for a much-loved Swindon man who died after being struck by a taxi on Saturday evening.

Father-of-two Sridhar Munnalari left behind a wife and two young children, aged five months and eight years, and a fundraising effort to support them has raised more than £38,000 within 48 hours of being launched.

On Thursday morning the total topped £40,500.

Mr Munnalari, who worked at UK Shared Business Services, based at Polaris House, was hit by the vehicle on Corporation Road, and taken to the Major Trauma Unit at Southmead Hospital. He died the following day.

Pradeep Bhardwaj, a friend of Mr Munnalari who set up the fundraising page, and a fellow member of the Swindon Hindu Temple, said: “Sridhar was a very religious Hindu, a fond neighbour and one of the most adored local tennis club members.

“This is the time for everyone to put that generosity of spirit into practice.

“The target is to do as much as we can for the family. It’s a long life ahead for them, and especially for the two young children. No amount of money can replace the loss they have gone through.

“The other thing that has been touching are the comments that people have been making. Human spirit is not just about helping friends and the people you know.

“People are even calling from abroad to check how they can help – I have been inundated with calls from the US and Australia.”

With a prayer service planned for Sridhar, the community has clearly been touched by his loss, and further condolences came in on the donation page.

One said: “Our condolences to Sridhar’s family. May our prayers ease through this difficult time.”

Another, addressed to his wife, said: “In no way we can get you back what you, your kids and we all lost. Stay strong. We wish and pray for all the strength you need during these tough times. Take care.”

To contribute to the donations, visit mydonate.bt.com/events/supportsridharfamily