A fundraiser in honour of a woman with a “heart of gold” who was found dead in Aberdeen last week has raised more than £15,000 in two days.
Jill Barclay, 47, was found near an address on Stoneywood Road in the Dyce area of the city at around 3.30am on Saturday, September 17.
A fundraiser, launched on Monday, has already raised more than £15,000 for the mum-of-two’s family.
Organisers Claire and Gillian said that once the campaign’s target of £16,000 is reached, a party in her honour will be set up to help the community “rave it like you’re Jill”.
“When we heard the news, it didn’t process – and if I’m honest, I’m not sure anyone has been able to process it, it really is tragic,” Claire told STV News.
“We are going to have a ‘rave it like you’re Jill’ party for everyone, to come and dance hard and remember her at her best.”
Alongside being an avid raver, Ms Barclay was also “a human with a heart of gold and true to the core,” the campaign statement reads.
Some have left messages of condolence along with donations in an outpouring of love for the “kickboxing ninja”.
Gemma Duthie wrote: “Her energy and laugh was infectious and her amazing sense of humour provided me lots of laughs. Echoing everyone else when I say my heart breaks for her family.”
Former colleague Phaena Pritchard stated: “I’ve had the honour to work with Jill over the past year, her laughter & positivity were infectious.
“I can’t yet believe or comprehend what has happened. My heartfelt condolences to her partner, children, wider family & friends at this tragic time. You will be sorely missed by many Jill.”
In a statement, the family of Ms Barclay said: “Jill was a deeply loved life partner, mother and daughter.”
To donate to the fundraiser, visit the GoFundMe page here.
Detective Superintendent Andrew Patrick, of Police Scotland’s Major Investigation Team, said: “Our thoughts are very much with Jill’s family and friends at what is a very difficult time for them.
“We have a dedicated team of officers in the area working on this investigation and I would like to reassure the community that they can speak to them if they have any concerns.
“I am appealing to anyone who saw anything suspicious in the area who has not already spoken to officers to get in touch.”
A 22-year-old man appeared at court in connection with her death on Tuesday, where he entered no plea and was remanded in custody.
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