A FUNDRAISING initiative set up in memory of a beloved mother has topped £20,000.

Devoted father-of-two Rob Coan created a fund in memory of his wife, Aleasha, with the money raised being donated to her favoured charity Ovarian Cancer Action.

Rob originally set a target of £1,000 but the money donated has now topped £20,000.

Aleasha died in January 2015 aged 36.

Before her death, she had supported the Ovarian Cancer charity, after she survived that illness.

The couple, who lived in Elmstead Road, Colchester, had two sons, Oliver and Toby.

More than 300 people attended Aleasha’s funeral at St Peter and St Paul’s Church in West Mersea.

Rob said: “The generosity shown reflected how much she had touched others.

“Since then, the boys, friends, work colleagues and I have walked, climbed, swam, cycled, run, raffled, auctioned and created to make this a truly memorable and fitting tribute to her.”

He added: “We find ourselves over £20,000 in just two years.

“We will continue to fund raise in Aleasha’s memory.”

But the charity fundraising is to continue. On March 26, a sponsored walk is being held on the Wivenhoe Trial starting at 9am.

Rob said: “It will be a chance for reflection, contemplation and, of course, to raise valuable funds.

“Being Mother’s Day and two days before her birthday, it is specially significant for the boys.”

Entry is a voluntary donation of £5 to Ovarian Cancer Action.

Toby will also be holding a guess the steps competition, so people can try to guess how many steps he will do during the five mile walk.

Rob said: “We already have a number of other events inked in for this year, including swims for the boys, some cycle rides and raffles.

“The boys have assisted in promotional videos and photo shoots for the charity. I am sure this will expand as we go through.”

All funds and events go through the charity page Aleasha.coan.

muchloved.com and go directly to the charity.

Rob added: “I hope one day to get the tribute fund to £50,000 but that is some way off.”