A campaign in honour of those that died in this week’s helicopter crash on the north Norfolk coast has already smashed its fundraising target.

Caitlyn Malone, who lives at RAF Lakenheath with husband Dallas, set the campaign in honour of the four aircrew that died in Tuesday’s crash at Cley.

Set up on website gofundme.com, the appeal had already raised almost $24,000 when the EADT went to press, having originally set a target of $4,000.

Mrs Malone, who has lived on the base since October, said: “I had no idea it would get as big as it has. It’s been incredible.

“The families must have so much going on right now, this is just to help relieve any monetary stress in the future.

“It’s been amazing to see that so many people want to help out.” Capt Christopher Stover, Capt Sean Ruane, Technical Sgt Dale Mathews and Staff Sgt Afton Ponce all died in the crash, which happened during a routine training exercise.

The funds from the appeal are being coordinated by the base’s public affairs team, and will be split between the four families.

Lieutenant Keenan Kunst said: “Everyone is really overwhelmed by the support we’ve received locally and from around the world.”