Kerry Coombes fundraiser to support family passes £5,000

Kerry Coombes <i>(Image: British Transport Police)</i>
Kerry Coombes (Image: British Transport Police)
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A fundraiser has been started to support the family of Kerry Coombes, who tragically died following a crash in Hoghton.

Kerry Coombes and her daughter Ava, aged eight, were involved in the incident, where a train collided with a car on a level crossing, with the child still in a critical condition in hospital.

The 33-year-old was a coach at Lostock Hall Juniors FC, a club where she volunteered for 14 years, and the club has set up the JustGiving page to help the family.

The club’s JustGiving page said: “It is with great sadness that Lostock Hall Juniors FC share the loss of Kerry Coombes, who tragically passed away following a rail incident in Hoghton, Preston.

“Kerry was a much-loved mum, daughter, sister and fiancée whose kindness, warmth and dedication touched so many lives.

"Her loss has left an immeasurable void for her family, friends and everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

“For more than 14 years, Kerry was a valued volunteer coach and committee member at Lostock Hall Juniors Football Club.

"She devoted countless hours to supporting the club and, most importantly, the children and young people within it.

"Her encouragement, commitment and caring nature helped shape the experiences of so many families, and her impact on the club community will never be forgotten.

“This fundraiser has been created to support Kerry’s family during this incredibly difficult time.

"Funds raised will help with funeral expenses, support Ava’s recovery, and provide some financial security for Kerry’s children in the months ahead, helping to ease some of the immediate pressures they now face.

“Every donation, no matter the amount, will make a meaningful difference. If you are unable to donate, sharing this page and keeping Kerry’s family in your thoughts would be greatly appreciated.

“Thank you for your kindness, support and generosity during this heartbreaking time.

“Kerry will be remembered with love, gratitude and affection by all who knew her.”

The fundraiser has currently raised £5,300.

To donate, search 'I'm raising £5000 to In Memory of Kerry Coombes And in Support of Her Family' on JustGiving.

Darwen FC has also shared the fundraiser, and said that Ava was a mascot at most home and away games.

A club’s spokesperson said: “On Thursday, Darwen lost one of its family in a tragic accident.

"Kerry Coombs, the partner of our Head of Media, Matt Murphy, was taken from us at the age of 33.

“Their daughter Ava, who is our mascot most home and away games, is still in a critical condition in hospital and we are all hoping she comes through ok.

"Kerry’s club Lostock Hall Juniors FC have set up a JustGiving page to help the family at this sad time. Any donation, big or small would be so grateful.

“We are thinking of Matt, Ava and Cian at this time. RIP Kerry.”

The incident occurred shortly before 9am on June 25, and a criminal investigation has been launched by British Transport Police.

British Transport Police are urging witnesses or anyone with information who has yet to speak to officers to get in touch by texting 61016 or by calling 0800 40 50 40, quoting reference 152 of June 25.

Information can also be given anonymously via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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