Appeal to ease family tragedy

Sharon Rutter (46) who died after a long illness

GENEROUS Oldhamers have pulled together to help four children left without a mum in the run up to Christmas.

Sharon Rutter (46) from Chadderton, had been ill for a couple of years and last week finally lost her battle. Her husband Stephen died six years ago - so her eldest daughter Abbie (21) is now a carer for her younger brother and sisters Sundee (13), Sienna (11) and Rhys (10). The family is living between Sharon’s home and Abbie’s house in Royton as they try to scrape togethr the money to buy a larger house for them all.

Sharon’s best friend Stacey Greenhalgh, from Royton, has asked local people to help with funeral costs and Christmas gifts for the children.

“Abbie was worried because she had to make plans for the funeral and her mum had had no money and had no time to sort Christmas because of her time in hospital,” said Sharon. “But people given toys, food parcels and all sorts to help out.

“I’m amazed how helpful the businesses have been. Oldham Sofa Company said we could use its store as a drop-off point for people to leave donations of toys.

“Even when Sharon was poorly she made time for everybody. She was almost like a mother figure to me.”

Abbie wants a proper funeral to give her family the chance to say goodbye to their mum.

“When dad died they were very young, so weren’t able to say goodbye. This time I want to make sure it’s right for them and for mum,” she said.

Family friend Zoe Robertson set up a Go Fund Me page online that raised £5,720 in three days towards the family’s costs. Visit www.gofundme.com/x6dhx6as to make a donation.