A CROWDFUNDING appeal has raised more than £5,000 for the family of a York mother who has died suddenly.

Sue Martyn died unexpectedly at home on September 26 at the age of 44, leaving behind her husband Neal and their three young children.

The cause of her death is not yet known and is being investigated by a coroner.

As Sue had no life cover, her friend Ruth Thompson, director of York Inspirational Kids, along with members of the group, set up an online fundraising page using crowdfunder.co.uk to help pay for her funeral costs.

Sue was also a member of the group, which supports families of children and young people who have a disability and/or additional need.

The fundraising page has so far raised more than £5,300, easily surpassing the initial target of £1,000.

Explaining why the appeal was set up, Ruth said: "Neal was very concerned because he didn't have any cover and the cost of a funeral isn't cheap.

"Myself and members of York Inspirational Kids were a bit unsure what we could do to help or how generous people would be but we thought we would try a fundraising page. The response has been phenomenal."

Neal added: "To say I am overwhelmed is an understatement."

Any surplus money that is remaining after paying for the cost of Sue's funeral will be given to her family for her 10-year-old son and eight-year-old twins - a boy and a girl.

Ruth, who first met Sue about five years ago, described her friend as an "extremely bubbly and outgoing person."

"She really was a friend to all, she would help absolutely anybody," Ruth said.

"That's why we have had such an amazing response to the Crowdfunding appeal."

Sue's funeral will take place at York Crematorium, in Bishopthorpe Road, next Thursday at 12.20pm. All are welcome to attend.