£5k raised in Joan’s memory
A community has raised thousands of pounds in memory of a shop worker who was murdered.
Residents in the Fulwell area of Sunderland have rallied together to raise the cash as a tribute to Joan Hoggett, 62, who died outside the One Stop Shop in Sea Road, on September 9
Friends of Fulwell has so far raised £5,344 which will be given to Joan’s family – with the donations still flooding in.
The organisation aims to raise the aspirations of the local people in Fulwell by providing support, staging community events and activities and sourcing resources to help to make changes in the area.
Many local businesses are involved in the fundraiser – with donation buckets on their counters.
Friends of Fulwell founder and director of North East Sport, Peter Curtis, 46, said: ”We have a huge following on social media and we were approached by a number of people to raise cash in Joan’s memory.
“We started raising money pretty much the morning after the murder.
“To raise such a significant amount of money from a small community in a relatively short space of time is incredible.
“It’s amazing to see what a community can do when they unite towards something they really believe in and care about.”
Friends of Fulwell was also involved in the vigil held for Joan.
To donate to Joan’s Fund, visit: https://cafdonate.cafonline.org/8734 or use donation boxes in Fulwell Library, Fulwell Post office and the Blue Bell Pub.
Ethan Mountain, 19, of Heaton Gardens, South Shields, is accused of Joan Hoggett’s murder.
Mountain appeared at Newcastle Crown Court and spoke only to confirm his name, age, address and nationality and was not asked to enter any plea.
If Mountains is deemed fit to plead or stand trial, then he will appear at Newcastle Crown Court on November 26.