Thousands raised to help family of mum and daughter killed in M4 …

Funds are being raised to help the family of a mum and daughter killed in an M4 crash during Storm Babet. Cheryl Wood, 61, and 40-year-old Sarha Smith died in the collision which involved their car and a lorry that overturned on the motorway near Chippenham on Friday, October 20.

Five vehicles were involved in the incident – three cars, a National Highways vehicle, and a lorry. It’s understood a National Highways traffic officer was dealing with a minor road traffic collision on the hard shoulder shortly before the fatal incident.

A JustGiving page has now been set up to help raise £15,000 for Sarha's six children who are aged between three and 22. The family have allowed WalesOnline to share the fundraiser page, which was set up by a relative.

The page reads: "We are deeply saddened to share the devastating news of the tragic loss of two incredible women, Sarha Smith and Cheryl Woods. On October 20, 2023, their lives were tragically cut short due to a collision on the M4^[3]. As we come together to mourn their untimely departure, we also want to extend our support to their grieving family. We have established this campaign to raise funds towards the funeral costs and to provide immediate assistance for their six daughters aged three, 12, 14, 19, 21, and 22.

"The sudden loss of Sarha Smith and Cheryl Woods has placed an immense burden on their family both emotionally and financially. Planning a funeral and dealing with the associated costs is an additional burden that no family should have to face during such a heartbreaking time. By contributing to this campaign you will help alleviate the financial strain on the family and provide them with the means to give Sarha and Cheryl the farewell they deserve.

"Moreover your generous contributions will also provide immediate assistance to their six daughters. As they navigate this difficult period of grief and loss they will require support to meet their immediate needs such as housing, education, and daily living expenses. Your donations will ensure that these young girls have the stability and resources necessary to rebuild their lives and pursue a hopeful future." You can find the fundraiser and support the family here.^[4] The page raised nearly £3,000 within seven hours of it being set up.

Previously Sarha's six daughters and the rest of the family paid tribute^[5] in a moving statement issued through Wiltshire Police, who have been providing support since the crash. The tribute said: "Cheryl Woods, cherished by those in her life, fulfilled the roles of a loving mother, doting grandmother, cherished sister, and a dear friend. Her selflessness was a defining trait, consistently prioritising her family's wellbeing over her own, and she took immense pride in her Welsh heritage while nurturing a deep love for nature."

To Sarha they said: "In the footsteps of her mother, unselfishly devoted herself to her family's needs ahead of her own. She was not only a mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend but her absence leaves a void for those who relied on her radiant presence. Her legacy lives on through her six daughters who will forever hold her memory close and strive to honour her with their efforts.”

References

1. ^{^} Man arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after crash (www.walesonline.co.uk)
2. ^{^} Hospital made series of mistakes before premature baby's death (www.walesonline.co.uk)
3. ^{^} the M4 (www.walesonline.co.uk)
4. ^{^} You can find the fundraiser and support the family here. (www.justgiving.com)
5. ^{^} Previously Sarha's six daughters and the rest of the family paid tribute (www.walesonline.co.uk)