More than £20,000 raised in memory of Liam and Chloe, the South Shields couple killed in the Manchester bomb attack

Chloe Rutherford 17, and Liam Curry, 19, were among the 22 people who tragically lost their lives in the Manchester Arena bomb attack on May 22, 2017.

Each year, on the anniversary of the atrocity, people across South Tyneside unite in wearing pink and blue to pay tribute to the couple and raise funds for the Chloe and Liam Together Forever Trust.

Chloe’s parents, Lisa and Mark Rutherford, and Liam’s mum, Caroline Curry, set up the charity as a lasting legacy to the much-loved couple.

Now the family have confirmed that this year’s event , on May 22, has raised an impressive £20,847.55 for the trust – with more money still set to come in.

Lisa said: "We are truly overwhelmed by the love and support everyone has shown for Pink and Blue Day.

"It enables us to go on to support others in their future aspirations and continue to keep Chloe and Liam’s legacy alive.”

The charity grants bursaries to help aspiring young performers and sportspeople on their way to fulfilling their potential – a tribute to Chloe’s talent as a performer and Liam’s skill on the cricket pitch.

More than 200 companies across the borough showed their support for Pink and Blue Day this year, with many individuals also dressing in the colours to honour Liam and Chloe and help raise funds.

Chloe’s uncle, Glenn Rowe, was among those raising money for the charity.

Glenn completed a 1,000 mile walk, raising more than £1,000.

Glenn said: “We have Pink and Blue Day every year but I have never physically done anything for it.

"So I thought if I go out and do something it shows everybody that anybody can get involved."

Other tributes to mark Pink and Blue Day 2021 included South Shields town hall being lit pink and blue, and flying the Together Forever flag.

To donate to the charity, visit the Chloe and Liam Together Forever Trust Facebook page.

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