FAMILIES of the five Ipswich women killed before Christmas today thanked Suffolk for its humanity and support. Although still devastated by the loss of their loved ones, they wanted to ensure people were aware of the comfort it has given them to know the community cares.

FAMILIES of the five Ipswich women killed before Christmas today thanked Suffolk for its humanity and support.

Although still devastated by the loss of their loved ones, they wanted to ensure people were aware of the comfort it has given them to know the community cares.

The bodies of Gemma Adams, 25, Tania Nicol, 19, Anneli Alderton, 24, Paula Clennell, 24, and Annette Nicholls, 29, were found in rural locations on the outskirts of Ipswich during a ten-day period in December.

Since the death of the sex workers, fundraising efforts - under the umbrella of The Evening Star's Somebody's Daughter appeal - have been taking place to fund a fitting legacy to their lives and to help other vulnerable young women.

Now, through Suffolk police, the five women's families have said thank you to all those who have contributed, and are continuing with the fundraising efforts.

In a message to the Evening Star, they said: “All the families are very grateful to the people of Ipswich and beyond who have contributed and supported your appeal.

“They would wish for that message to be conveyed to yourselves and local people.”

Nigel Pickover, editor of The Evening Star, said: “For each of the families, having to bear the tragic loss ones so young is almost beyond comprehension.

“At times such as this, it is heartening to see the community come together through the Somebody's Daughter appeal. The response from across the county has been fantastic.

“First and foremost these were much-loved young women, trapped by hard drug addiction and then double-trapped into the sex industry to pay for their habit.

“We must never forget how vulnerable these young women had become and must strive to ensure we provide a future haven for others who may find themselves in a similar position.”

Since its launch at the turn of the year, the community has thrown its weight behind the Somebody's Daughter appeal, raising tens of thousands of pounds.

New Wolsey Theatre-goers donated nearly £3,000, staff at the Warren Heath Sainsbury's petrol station raised £1,000 and a dress-down day at Willis bolstered the fund to the tune of £1,700.

Donations to the fund can be made online at www.eveningstar.co.uk, in person at Ipswich Borough Council's customer service centre in the Town Hall, by calling 01473 433777, or by sending a cheque, made payable to Somebody's Daughter Memorial Fund, to PO Box 772, Ipswich Borough Council, Grafton House, 15-17 Russell Road, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP1 2DE.