THOUSANDS of pounds raised in memory of a university accountant who died from bone marrow cancer is to help fund research into the disease.

The family of Jack Smart, who worked in Glasgow University's finance office, have raised £11,000 since he died 18 months ago.

They are donating the cash to university scientist Carl Goodyear, a senior lecturer in immunology, who is studying multiple myeloma, an incurable form of cancer which attacks white blood cells.

Mr Smart was well-known on the campus where he acted as honorary ­treasurer for the Glasgow University Sports Association for 16 years, transforming its finances.

His widow, Anne Smart, said: "Jack had always been very active taking part in running events and marathons, however sadly, in September 2012, he began struggling with his fitness and shortly afterwards he was diagnosed with myeloma. Shortly after the diagnosis Jack lost his battle to cancer".

"We miss Jack every day but we hope that by making this donation, and supporting research into myeloma, families affected by this cancer in future will stand a fighting chance of seeing their loved ones cured".

Julie Ommer, director of sport and recreation services, said: "As a member of staff supporting a student body you couldn't ask for a better person. Jack's approach was spot on - his ethos was very much about empowering the students."

The money raised by the Smart family will enable the team to use primary clinical samples from myeloma patients to study how the cancer cells internact with human bone marrow.