A fundraising appeal to help support the parents of a three-year-old killed in a crash near Totnes has raised nearly £11,000.

The three-year-old, named locally as Reuben, was killed five days before Christmas in a crash involving a Volvo, in which he and his mother were travelling, and a Honda with two male occupants, between Fork Cross and Follaton Gate on Wednesday, December 20.

A fundraising page was set up on JustGiving by friend Sima Cutting, aiming to raise £12,000 to support Reuben’s parents Tom Williams and Frankie Gould “during this awful time so they don’t need to worry about money at least”. So far it has raised more than £10,700.

Sima posted: “It’s with the heaviest heart and deepest sorrow that I write this. Those of you who know The Kitchen Table well will know Frankie. She’s been my right hand, friend and huge supporter of the business since I went solo two years ago.

“She’s an amazing chef and the hardest worker I’ve ever known. She was in an awful car crash on Wednesday 20th December and horrendously her son was killed in it. She’s with her in in-laws recovering from her injuries and will injuries.

“I would like to set up a fund in honour of little beautiful Reuben and to help the family in this time of need.”

Police officers spoke of the “truly awful incident” that killed Reuben and left his mother with a broken arm.

Local police officers posted on social media, saying: “It goes without saying that this is a truly awful incident, at this or anytime of year and our thoughts and prayers go out to the family, friends, and all involved in the incident.”

Chief Inspector Adrian Leisk, Head of Roads Policing across Devon, Cornwall and Dorset, tweeted: “Sat with...colleagues at Crownhill. Mood extremely low, focussing on the need to complete investigation to the highest standard. I am in awe of these people who pick themselves up time and time again. Their welfare is at the forefront of our minds.

“Another year, more unopened Christmas presents, more people who never made it home, more families trying to work out how to face a new year and more haunting memories for the emergency responders. Hold your loved ones close this Christmas and be thankful for everything you have.”

A 30-year-old man from Brixham and a 38-year-old from Torquay, who were arrested at the time, have been released under investigation.

Anyone with any information, or anyone who may have dashcam footage that could assist police with inquiries, is asked to contact 101, quoting log number 290 for December 20. You can donate to the family by CLICKING HERE