When Jay Slater vanished the morning after a Tenerife music festival, frantic friends desperately hoped they'd find him safe and well, and even set up a GoFundMe page to aid the search. But after a tragic end to their holiday that saw the British teen dead, the cash will now be used for a heartbreaking purpose. Lancashire-born Jay's mother Debbie Duncan, 55, initially explained that money raised would go toward supporting mountain rescue teams in their 'tireless search', as well as covering costs of food and accommodation during her family's stay on the Canary Island.
Some of the funds, which have now passed the £70,000 mark, would also be used to fly loved ones over so they could 'support each other during these dark times'. Everything changed, however, after the 19-year-old's body was discovered in a remote ravine, dashing any hopes of a reunion. As Jay's family prepare to say their final goodbyes at Jay's funeral later this morning, the Mirror takes a look at what the fundraiser will be used for now.
.. Grieving mum Debbie, who has vowed to give her 'beautiful boy' the send-off he deserves, will be using some of the money for the ceremony, with the remainder of the funds going towards Jay's repatriation, plus costs incurred by family and friends who flew out to Tenerife to help with the desperate search.
Taking to the GoFundMe page on July 18, Debbie wrote: "We are overwhelmed with grief and are so grateful for your support. The wonderful team from The Netherlands, Signi Z.