A flood of public donations has been made for the two children of Alex Weatherley, who was fatally struck by a car while on her morning run.

Since being set up on Tuesday (June 30), £1,900 has been donated by members of the public, almost ten times the initial target of £200.

The fundraising page was set up by Mandy Willson, a long-time childminder of Mrs Weatherley’s sons, to provide a holiday or other treat for the two boys in the wake of their mother’s death.

Writing online, Ms Willson said: “Whilst I don’t childmind the boys anymore I stayed in contact with the family and was still close to Alex.

“Hopefully we can create something positive out of such sadness.”

Keen athlete Mrs Weatherley, from Woodford Bridge, died on May 31 after being hit by a car in Chigwell Rise, Chigwell.

The 18-year-old man driving the car was arrested in connection with the crash and bailed until September 5.

With her children and husband Dominic, Mrs Weatherley was an enthusiastic and well-known member of the Shotokan Karate Club.

Fellow club member and Waltham Abbey councillor Rod Butler said: “She is obviously well-loved in the community and the karate club had hundreds of people who loved her.

“It is so nice for us to see so many people coming forward and helping.”

To donate to the appeal, visit the JustGiving page.