THE family of an Essex University student murdered in Thailand have raised enough money to attend the trial of two men accused of the killing.

Hannah Witheridge, 23, from Norfolk, was killed on the island of Koh Tao last September along with Jersey backpacker David Miller, 24.

Two Burmese men are due to stand trial over the murders in Thailand in July.

Miss Witheridge’s sister, Laura, set up an online campaign to help the family pay for accommodation and a translator.

The Gofundme appeal has now raised £11,400 – more than the £10,000 target.

Laura said: “The pressure and worry that has been lifted through hitting our goal is enormous.

“We can now focus our energy and time on preparing for the very difficult months that lie ahead.

“At a time when we are struggling to bear the weight of our load, we are propped up by the outpourings of support from, in many instances, complete strangers. It is bittersweet.”

She said any surplus money raised will be donated to charity.

Burmese migrant bar workers Zaw Lin and Win Zaw Htun, both 21, are accused of killing and raping Miss Witheridge, and killing Mr Miller.

Miss Witheridge was studying for a masters degree in speech therapy at Essex Univeristy and was living Morant Road, Colchester.

The Witheridge family appeal can be found at www.gofundme.com/HannahWitheridge