AN appeal launched in the wake of the murder of Sophie Lancaster has collected nearly £20,000 in under a year.

Supporters of the charitable foundation, which is being established in the gap-year student's name, including her mother Sylvia, have now formulated plans for how that money will be spent.

Talks have been held with Hope Hospital, where Sophie was treated after being attacked by a five-strong gang in Stubbylee Park, Bacup, about a suitable donation to benefit future patients.

Sophie, 20, was killed last August after trying to defend her boyfriend Robert Maltby from a gang attack. Five teens, who targeted the ex-Haslingden High pair because they were dressed as Goths, are now serving substantial prison terms.

Hundreds of black wristbands have been sold across Rossendale and beyond and tribute concerts have been staged nationwide by supporters of the alternative music scene, touched by her plight.

The funding generated should also pay for workshops to be staged in schools, colleges and youth clubs to tackle the issues of intolerance and prejudice.

An advice and information service, to help young people and professionals who deal with them, will also be established.

Part of the ongoing fundraising efforts will also see a new clothing range promoted, endorsed by the foundation.

Kate Conboy-Greenwood, a close friend of Sylvia, said: "The campaign is going from strength to strength - there was no way that Sophie was going to be forgotten but we even have been surprised at the amount of things that have been happening.

"Tragedies keep on happening and we are always being asked for advice and help from different people."

Sylvia meanwhile has recently met with Scottish government ministers, over the drafting of legislation designed to deter attacks on marginalised groups.

She is also set to feature in a forthcoming episode of Tonight with Trevor McDonald on ITV, to discuss similar matters.

A bench could be placed outside Haslingden Library, one of Sophie's favourite spots, in her memory.