FRIENDS of a Newhey mum murdered at home have launched a campaign to raise funds for her three children.
Tributes have also been paid to Liz Merriman whose body was found at a house on Birch Crescent on October 22.
A 40-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of murder but no person had been charged with any offence as the Correspondent went to press.
Liz’s friends have set up a Just Giving page with the intention of raising at least £4,000.
There is also a fundraiser at the Ko-Ko Club in Rochdale on Sunday, December 3.
Paying tribute to her, Liz’s family said: “Liz was funny, kind, caring and loyal.
“She was full of fun and had a laugh that once heard was never forgotten.
“Liz was beautiful on the inside and outside. She loved life and doted on her three boys, and they on her.
“She was always ready to help others and was extremely hard working.
“Her work with children in care was rewarding, and she was looking forward to the opening of a new service and her role there as deputy manager.
“She was a very special person and will be greatly missed by family and friends alike, who all love her dearly.”
A GMP spokesperson said: “Shortly after 11.35pm on Sunday, October 22 2017, police were called to an address on Birch Crescent in Newhey to reports that the body of a woman had been found.
“Officers attended and sadly found the body of Liz Merriman, who was due to celebrate her 40th birthday later this month.”
A post-mortem examination concluded Mrs Merriman died as a result of stab wounds to the torso and abdomen.
The death was referred to Rochdale Coroner’s Court on October 24 and the inquest will open on November 22 at 9.30am.
The Just Giving page for Liz’s children had reached nearly £3,000 when the Correspondent went to press.
Lisa Booth posted: “This amount is amazing and still growing, thank you to everyone that has donated to this and to the raffle prizes and auction prizes.”
Daniel P. Huszar added: “All of this just goes to show how much Liz made an impression and mark on! So lovely raising this for those poor boys.”
Organiser Stacey Power wrote: “Wow. I’m overwhelmed with how generous everyone being. Thank u all so much xxx.”