Pulling together for mum’s funeral

Family and friends of a mum who died suddenly say they have been blown away by the community’s support.

Sabrina Jones, 33, died on Friday March 11, after she was struck down by pneumonia, leaving behind her heartbroken daughter, Bethany, 13.

The security guard, who lived in Oxford Road, Canterbury, died with her family, daughter and partner, Mark Tappenden, at her bedside.

A charity darts match was held on Saturday at the Mill pub in Sturry Road to raise cash for her funeral. Family friend Sarah Cooper, who organised it, said: “It went really well – it was aimed at raising money because funerals are not cheap things. The community has come together and a lot of people have been touched by Sabrina’s story.

“We want to keep raising as much as we can – we have been blown away by the support.”

Sarah set up an online fundraising appeal, which has already exceeded its £2,000 target.

The family also received a donation from Bethany’s school, St Anselm’s, of £224.

Sarah said: “We have already reached our Justgiving target, but that was for a basic funeral, if you like, and we would like to make it a bit more personal to the family.

“Any funds left over would then be given to Sabrina’s daughter. We need to keep going to set Bethany up as she is only 13 and wants to go to university.

“The family really appreciate everything that everyone has done and would like to thank the Mill and St Anselm’s school.”

To support the appeal visit www.gofundme.com/mdtxgnpk

Players at the charity darts match held at the Mill pub, Canterbury, in aid of the funeral appeal for Sabrina Jones, right,

Picture: Chris Davey FM4263898