'World to rebuild' Donations flood in for Aria's family

MORE than 1,200 people have shown their support for the grieving family of Aria Thorpe by donating to an online fundraiser set up by a friend.

- Shannon BROWN

Nine-year-old Aria died in Weston-super-Mare of a single stab wound on Monday.

A 15-year-old boy has been charged with her murder. The teenager, who cannot legally be named due to his age, appeared at Bristol Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday and is next due at Bristol Crown Court today (Friday).

A fundraiser has been created to support Aria’s family in the wake of her tragic death, which has shocked the community.

The JustGiving page has already drawn support from more than 1,200 people donating more than £22,000, far surpassing the initial £10,000 goal.

The fundraiser was started by friend of Aria’s family, Heather Prindiville, who said “tragedy has struck in the most unimaginable way” at a time of year that is supposed to be “magical and loved filled”.

The financial support will go towards covering costs while Aria’s mum and family mourn the loss of their little girl.