A fundraiser for the family of a 'murdered' Darlington mum has raised nearly £10,000.
The GoFundMe appeal for Leanne Park has hit £9,530, as floral tributes for the 'amazing' woman continue to be left outside The Greyhound pub.
Leanne, 44, was found dead in a flat above the Parkgate pub after emergency services were called at about 9.15pm on Wednesday, September 23.
Police remain at the scene and dozens of floral tributes have been left outside the pub for the much-loved mum and care worker.
Supporter Natasha Nicholson set up the fundraiser to support Leanne's family after her death.
She wrote: "As a community, we want to come together to support Leanne's family at this devastating time. We are raising funds to support the family through this difficult time and to provide for any additional needs the family may have as they navigate this heartbreaking loss.
"Every contribution, no matter how small, will help ease the burden and allow them the space to grieve without further worry.
"Thank you for your kindness, generosity, and compassion. Together, we can show them they are not alone. With heartfelt thanks."
Andrew Bell, 44, of Parkgate, Darlington, appeared before Newton Aycliffe Magistrates' Court today, Monday, September 28, charged with Leanne's murder.
He spoke only to confirm his own details during the short hearing and no plea was entered.
Bell appeared in the dock wearing a grey tracksuit, with greying curly hair.
Prosecuting, John Garside asked for Bell to be remanded in custody.
District Judge Steven Hood remanded him in custody until his next appearance at Teesside Crown Court on Tuesday, September 29, at 10am.
A plea hearing is scheduled for October 26 at the same court.
A 27-year-old man arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender has been released on bail.
Crime scene investigators continued examining the area, while Durham Police said the cordon outside The Greyhound was expected to remain in place "for some time".
Leanne worked at Ventress Hall care home in Darlington, where colleagues said she "would do anything for anybody".
In a Facebook post, the care home said: "I can't actually believe I am writing this, but it is with a heavy heart that I say we have lost our friend and work colleague, Leanne.
"Leanne was always so kind and would do anything for anybody, especially our residents.
"The world is beyond cruel and you have been taken too soon. We love you much Leanne.
"Love all your Ventress Work Family. You will never be forgotten. Our condolences to all Leanne's family."
Leanne's family described her as the "best mam, nana, daughter and friend".
They said: “She was loved by everyone and would do anything for anyone.
“She was the life and soul of the party and loved to dance.
“We love her so much and miss her more than words can describe. We are completely devastated. Her death has ripped the heart out of our family.
“We are grateful for all the kind messages and the support since her death. We ask that everyone remembers her for the kind-hearted woman she was.”
Mourners have left flowers and messages outside The Greyhound.
One tribute read: "Always in our hearts, taken too soon. Heaven has gained a beautiful angel."
Another said: "RIP our beautiful Auntie. You are so loved and going to be a huge miss, love you always."
Another message read: "RIP my best friend, I will miss you forever".
Family liaison officers are supporting Leanne's family.
READ MORE:
-
£5,000 raised for family of 'murdered' Darlington care worker in less than 20 hours
-
Family tribute to mum 'loved by everyone' who was 'murdered' above Darlington pub
-
Darlington man, 44, appears in court charged with murder of 'kind-hearted' mum Leanne
Durham Police said: “Anyone with any information is asked to call Durham Constabulary on 101, quoting incident number 521 of September 23.”
Information can also be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Tributes have also flooded in online, with one person describing Leanne as a "lovely woman" and another saying she would be missed.
Share