A FUNDRAISING campaign set up in memory of mum-of-two Leigh Gilchrist has already smashed its £2,000 target and is still rising.

The fundraiser, set up through Facebook, is in tribute to Leigh, of Prestonpans, who passed away aged 40 from secondary breast cancer at the end of last month. She was mother to Aaron (11) and Maxwell (7) and wife of Euan.

The money raised will go to charity Make 2nds Count which works to raise awareness and funds for research into secondary breast cancer.

Euan Fleming, trustee of Make 2nds Count, said: “We are completely blown away by the generosity of Leigh’s friends and family at such a desperately sad time.

“To raise such a huge amount of money in such a short period of time is a clear testament to how loved and respected a person Leigh was. The funds raised will continue to support our work in funding research into secondary breast cancer and to help families like Leigh’s.”

The fundraising page, that has now raised £2,435 was set up by Prestonpans’ Lynda Reid, who said: “I have known Leigh since we started Prestonpans Infant School in 1983. As you grow up and leave school to start employment people tend to go their separate ways but, in our community, you may not see each other everyday but we still rally round in times of need.

“I decided to start the fundraiser to raise money for the Make 2nds Count charity in memory of Leigh after reading the article in last week’s Courier.

“It was a heart-breaking read and after seeing the comment that Leigh had wanted to raise money for the charity but never got around to it really hit me. Leigh touched so many people’s lives over the years and this fundraiser has shown just how much people thought of her.

“We have also had donations from people who didn’t know Leigh but were touched by the story. It is important that we highlight the great work that this charity has done for Leigh and will continue to do for others in the future.”

Leigh’s funeral service takes place on Tuesday, at 10.15am at Prestongrange Church, Prestonpans. Bright colours are welcome but no denims. To donate to the campaign, search Lynda Reid on Facebook.