FUNDRAISERS have been launched to support the devastated family of a mother who died in a car crash at the weekend.

Natalie Doherty, 33, who grew up in Haslingden and lived in Crawshawbooth, lost her life when the car she was in came off the M66 near Bury and hit a tree.

Emergency services were called at 1.15pm on Saturday but Natalie, mother to six-year-old Bobby, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Support has flooded in for Natalie’s family, with fundraisers being set up in her memory.

Two GoFundMe pages have already raised more than £8,500 which will go towards helping the family in any way they need.

The first fundraiser has been set up by Rossendale Valley JFC who train Bobby in the Under 7s Pumas group and know Natalie well from bringing him to training.

The club said: “We would like to support the family of Natalie who sadly lost her life in a tragic car accident.

“Natalie’s son Bobby a player for Rossendale Valley JFC U7s Pumas will be supported through friends and team-mates and all from the club.

“Thoughts and prayers go out to all family and friends. We would be grateful for any donation to help the family at this already hard time.

“Rest in peace Natalie from everyone at Rossendale Valley JFC.”

Another GoFundMe pages has been set up by Lee Gueller, whose son plays football with Bobby, along with friend and Rossendale JFC Cathy Cowley. They are walking from Old Trafford to Anfield next Sunday in Natalie’s memory.

Lee said: “I’ve only known Natalie for probably a year but she was so lovely, she was gorgeous outside, she was gorgeous inside.

“I got to know her because her six-year-old son Bobby plays in the same football team as my seven-year-old Raphi.”

He added: “Natalie was heart and soul on the side-lines.”

A 31-year-old man who was also in the vehicle suffered serious injuries and is in hospital.

An investigation has now been launched by police who are asking for anyone who may have dash cam footage of the crash to contact them.

PC Jody Oakley said: “Our thoughts are with the woman’s family who are all understandably distressed and devastated following this collision.

“An investigation into this collision is on-going and anyone who may have seen anything, has any information or has dash cam footage is asked to contact us.

“Information can be submitted online at www.gmp.police.uk or by calling 0161 856 4741 quoting log 1386 of 08/05/2021.”