A fundraising appeal to help the family of a girl who died from a suspected drugs overdose in Leeds city centre has surpassed all expectations, with an ambitious £1,000 target smashed just hours after it was set up.
18-year-old Courtney Chamberlain from Pudsey was on a night out at The Warehouse in the early hours of Monday, 26 when she collapsed.
Paramedics transferred her Leeds General Infirmary, but she sadly died a short time later.
To try and help Courtney's family deal with her sudden death, a friend set up a GoFundMe page with the aim of raising £1,000.
The target was surpassed within a few hours and the number of donations has already topped £2,500.
'This gorgeous, talented, amazing girl has been tragically taken away from us'
Geraldine Kennedy, who set up the appeal, shared an update on the GoFundMe page which said: "The love for Courtney is amazing but not at all surprising.
"This gorgeous, talented, amazing girl with a heart of gold has been tragically taken away from us.
"I know no one can even imagine the pain and suffering Courtney’s family and loved ones are going through.
"She was a loving daughter, granddaughter, sister and niece also a dear friend to many.
"With a little help we can support Courtney's family through this tough and devastating time."
Geraldine's fundraising appeal came off the back of a beautifully penned letter from Katie Westby, Courtney's best friend.
Katie shared some of her favourite memories with Courtney in a card left with a bunch of flowers outside The Warehouse in an emotional tribute.
The nightclub has put out a message to reiterate their 'zero policy on drugs' in the venue as it continues to work with West Yorkshire Police to establish the circumstances around the youngster's death.
Visit our dedicated Leeds News page for the biggest talking points from across the city.
LeedsLive has launched a WhatsApp group to keep you up to date with the latest news! Click here to join and follow the instructions on your phone. Your number won't be shared with anyone else in the group.
