A CHARITY launched in memory of a “hardworking, beautiful girl” has started 2019 by hitting its massive £23,000 target.

The Catherine Wells-Burr Foundation, which aims to help provide specialist support workers for the families of murder and manslaughter victims, has also given their thanks to all their supporters.

The charity was set up in memory of Catherine Wells-Burr, who was murdered in 2012 when she was just 23 years old, aimed to raise £1,000 for each year of her life.

It raises money for two charities - Victim Support Homicide and Child Bereavement UK.

Catherine’s family said: “We would like to thank everyone who has helped us reach our objective and raised money for TCW-BF.

“We couldn’t have reached our goal without everyone’s help and support. We have had some laughs and fun along the way, and we hope that it continues.”

The group higlighted some of their hardworking fundraisers, including Rob Boaler and Becky Hawkins who held a 80s and 90s charity summer disco, and Caroline Mullane who raised £411 by completing a 50k run.

They have also thanked The Bell and Crown Bikers BBQ and Motorcycle Run, Winsham FC Charity Day, Chard and District Carnival Committee, Chard Business Fair, Chardstock Street Fair, Paul Fenton’s Estate Agents, and Otter Nurseries.

The charity also held a number of its own fundraising events, which included: a balloon release, climbing the O2, a Windwhistle Golf Day, annual Christmas decorations, and the summer ‘Our Beautiful Catherine’ rose.

In 2017, local football team Chard Rangers organised an auction to raise money for the foundation.

The lots included signed memorabilia from Manchester United, Ant and Dec, and the Great British Bake-Off.

They also auctioned sports and theatre tickets, and companies donated gifts, including a Henry Hoover from Numatic, prizes from McDonalds and a gift from Razooks hairdressers.

Catherine’s mum Jayne described her daughter as “a determined, hardworking, beautiful girl.”