NEARLY £6,000 has been raised to help with the funeral costs for a Halesowen mum-of-three who died unexpectedly earlier this month.

Wendy Yafai, who was in her early 40s, passed away suddenly in January 4 from an unexplained illness.

The sudden death of the popular mum, who grew up in Stourbridge, has stunned and devastated friends and family - particularly her three young daughters Charlotte, aged 22, Olivia, aged 18, and Indie, aged nine.

To help them pay for the funeral a crowdfunding page has been set up and within just 12 days the £5,000 target has been topped with donations standing at £5,720.

A statement on the page says: "The funds will contribute towards the costs incurred for the funeral and helping Wendy's daughters with living costs until finances are all sorted.

"This is an extremely hard time for the family and they would like to thank everyone for all of their support, lovely messages and well wishes.

"Wendy was such a kind, caring, loving mother, friend, auntie and partner, she will be greatly missed by all."

Wendy's funeral was due to be held this afternoon (Monday January 28) at Rowley Regis Crematorium, followed by a wake at The Huntingtree Pub, Halesowen.

Anyone wishing to make a donation can still do so online at www.gofundme.com (and search Wendy Yafai).