by Danny Boyle

Many of us may have wrestled with thoughts of what it might be like to be at our own funeral – imagining who will attend and what is said.

But terminal cancer sufferer Ron Gollop has taken the idea a step further.

Given just three months to live in June 2008, the 73-year-old invited about 250 family members and friends to an extravagant pre-wake party.

Two years later – having defied doctors’ predictions of his life expectancy – he has now recorded a charity album to be played at his own funeral.

The former pub landlord has professionally recorded his favourite songs to raise money for the EllenorLions Hospices, where he receives weekly respite care.

Mr Gollop, who ran Cobham’s Darnley Arms pub for 12 years and the Candy Box shop for three years until being diagnosed with colon cancer, said: "The staff do such wonderful work, they really work their socks off.

"If I had bags of money I’d give it to them because they deserve it, but this is the only way I can repay them. This will mean I can die happy."

Among the eight songs he recorded for the CD is Frank Sinatra’s That’s Life, the version which Mr Gollop wants to be played at his funeral.

Daughter Tracey Paterson, 43, of Whitehill Road, Gravesend, said: "It’s just like dad to turn a negative into a positive. This will be a lasting memory of him.

"The doctors said they are surprised dad is still standing so we are really treasuring every moment."

Mr Gollop, who lives in Arnold Avenue, Meopham, has two children and three grandchildren with Meg, his wife of 44 years.

The 66-year-old said: "Ron has a wicked sense of humour and a very positive attitude. I’m convinced that’s what has kept him going."