THOUSANDS of pounds have been raised to help the two children of the recently murdered Simone Grainger.

The 30-year-old mother was pronounced dead at her home on Windsor Way in Calcot after suffering serious head injuries on November 4.

Her husband, Steven Grainger, of Hatford Road, Reading, has been charged with one count of murder.

He appeared at Reading Crown Court on Thursday.

He did not enter a plea and a provisional trial date has been set for April 30 next year.

A fundraising page, set up in her memory, has already raised a staggering £14,555 to help her children.

Her cousin, Karima Dernawi, writes: "As surreal and painful as it is to have to write these words, it is now our family duty to turn our full attention to the two beautiful children left behind and caught up in this total tragedy.

"The support and love we have received from Simone's close friends, colleagues and the wider community has been amazing, we are truly warmed by the love and sympathy you have shown.

"We have already received various donations for which we are so grateful with many more asking how to donate.

"Although we are a family lost in grief and in the depths of our deepest despair, we must now do all we can to help secure the future for Taya and Harley.

"Your continued support is gratefully received by all the family."

Donations have been coming in thick and fast for the two children, after an initial target of £10,000 was set.

A spokesman for Thames Valley Police added: “Officers were called on Saturday (November 4) at about 3.30pm by the ambulance service after a 30-year-old woman was found at a property in Windsor Way with serious head injuries.

“Sadly, she was pronounced dead at the scene shortly afterwards."

Click here to make a donation to the online fundraising page.