A FUNDRAISER has been set up to help contribute towards the funeral of a 19-year-old woman who died in Tottington.

Callie Smith's body was discovered close to Brandle Avenue in the early hours of Wednesday, June 10.

The fundraiser, which has already smashed its target of £5,000, is set to help towards the funeral costs, with any money not spent to go toward mental health charities.

Family friend Julie O'Rourke, who set up the fundraiser, said: "It is so difficult for us all trying to come to terms with the painful loss of our beautiful Callie and it is still very raw and even more so for her parents who are now facing the agonising task of arranging a funeral for their daughter.

"She touched so many hearts and sure she will be remembered for her craziness and fantastic and unique sense of humour, her loving ways, and her warm caring personality.

"She certainly touched our hearts and it felt like she was naturally a member of our family as she was growing up.

"Not for one minute did we ever think we would be saying our last goodbyes to her and it absolutely breaks our hearts and does not feel real."

The fundraiser has already raised more than £8,000 from an initial target of £5,000- with more than 500 different donors.

Greater Manchester Police said there were no suspicious circumstances surrounging the death of Miss Smith, who had been a student at Parrenthorn High School.

Following news of her death, hundreds of tributes were posted to Twitter, with her name briefly 'trending' in the UK, such was the outpouring of grief.

Julie added: "I’m sure she will be looking down watching us all celebrate her life.

"However small, any donation will help towards the great send-off she deserves.

"If you are unable to donate at this time, could we ask that you share this page to help raise awareness."

The fundraising page can be found by clicking here.