Family say thanks for fundraising success

Killed: Emma O'Kane died after a glass bottle pierced her throat at a Heywood bar where she worked

The family of Emma O'Kane, the barmaid who was killed when a glass bottle struck her throat on Boxing Day, has raised £3000 for the three young children she left behind.

The 27-year-old mum died after the bottle was thrown into the crowded Queen Anne Hotel in Heywood.

Uncle John O'Kane and partner Gail organised a race night in her honour, to not only raise awareness of rising pub violence, but to pass on some funds to her children.
The event took place on Saturday (4 April) at the Midland Beer Company, Castleton. 

Gail Hooper told Rochdale Online News how the people of Castleton "excelled themselves" to raise money for a good cause.

She said: "It was an amazing night, I am so thankful to the people who have donated to us.

"The loss of Emma has been hard on us all but we can at least put this money to good use and give it to the trust fund for the children.
"Thank you so much to all the local businesses and donators who helped us to achieve this".

So far, £3,400 has been counted.

Neil McNulty,19, pleaded guilty to manslaughter when he appeared at Manchester Crown Court on Tuesday (17 March 2009). He is being sentenced on Tuesday (7 April).