A family friend of a nine year old girl, who was allegedly murdered in her own home just days before Christmas, has shared a heartfelt update.

Aria Thorpe passed away from a single stab wound at her home on the evening of Monday, 15 December. The local community has rallied around her family and friends, with a vigil held in her hometown of Weston-super-Mare, Somerset, last night, The Mirror reports.

A 15 year old boy, who cannot be named due to legal reasons, has been charged with her murder and is set to appear at Bristol Crown Court today.

The fundraising effort was initiated by a family friend, Heather Prindiville. Just a day after its creation, a JustGiving page has already more than doubled its initial £10,000 target.

Heather stated that the funds will be used to cover costs and support Aria's mother, Victoria Hull, and the family during their time of grief.

She wrote: "As a close friend of the family and seeing first hand just how difficult the coming moments, days, weeks, months, and even years will be for them I just want to be able to do something to ease the road ahead.

"Tragedy has struck in the most unimaginable way and so close to Christmas. My beautiful friend Tori and her amazing family have lost their beautiful little girl Aria at what is supposed to be the most magical and loved filled time of year.

"In the midst of it all while they're learning how to breathe each moment I'd wholeheartedly like to take at least one worry away which she hasn't even considered will be a worry.

"With the support of her family, I am trying to raise some funds for whatever comes up they will need, be it bills, housing, and most importantly space to heal without the added stress of having been away from work or any pressure to race back to it.

"Tori is a single mother and military veteran, she gives so much to everyone around her, her love, her support, her time, and she's given her all to serve her country. I just want to give her the space to heal and to support her family to heal."

After the total exceeded £20k on December 18, Heather shared an update, stating: "When I started this page I wanted to aim for the sky, this family has a whole world to rebuild. I knew deep down that people, that humanity would blast my target and you continue to amaze me with your generosity! Thank you and keep sharing."

The appeal has now amassed over £27,000 from more than 1,300 contributions.

Heather's latest message arrives just hours before the 15 year old boy is set to appear in court charged with Aria's alleged murder.

Aria marked her ninth birthday a fortnight ago, enjoying a Kpop celebration with her mates. She was characterised as a "lovely" and "sassy" youngster.

Weston-super-Mare MP Daniel Aldridge branded Aria's death an "utterly heartbreaking tragedy". He commented: "My thoughts are with her family, friends, and everyone who knew her at this unimaginably difficult time.

"Nothing any of us can say will make this any easier for the family, but I know the relevant authorities are supporting them. Also, my office and I are here to support the family however they might need.

"This is a moment that will understandably shock and sadden us all, and I know many in our town will be grieving, anxious, and seeking answers. I urge everyone to respect the family's privacy and avoid speculation while the police carry out their enquiries."