Sunderland murder probe: Fund launched for Connor Brown's family raises thousands as community rallies round after teenager's death

The GoFundMe page has raised thousands for Connor Brown's family already.

Less than 24 hours after it was set up, the RIP Connor Brown page had collected more than £3,400 to gift to the 18-year-old's loved ones.

It has now topped more than £9,000.

The boxer was assaulted at the back of The Borough pub in Sunderland city centre and was taken to hospital with life threatening injuries consistent with a stabbing.

He died a short time later.

Northumbria Police has this morning confirmed Connor was the man who died after the attack and that two men, aged 19 and 20, have been arrested on suspicion of murder.

Sunderland murder probe: Second man arrested over Connor Brown stabbing

Police want to hear from anyone who has information which can help them investigate Connor Brown's death.

The donations page has been set up by Tracey Brown, who has posted notes on the GoFundMe site.

This afternoon, she posted an update which said: "Connor's family are totally overwhelmed by the fantastic love and support you are showing them.

"They have asked me to thank you all on their behalf.

"I’m leaving the page open for as long as I can to try to secure their next few months financially, so that’s one less thing for them to worry about.

Tributes have flooded following the death of Connor Brown.

"Totally amazing each and every one."

She first posted on the page a message which said: "This is the official donation page which has been set up with Connors family’s permission "I am not saying too much as I don’t want to jeopardise the police's ongoing case. "Connor was a beautiful, young 18-year-old boy with his life ahead of him.

"He was brutally murdered on a night out with his friends.

"I have known this family on a personal level for approximately 20 years.

Flowers have been left at the scene following the tragedy.

"This family does not have one single bad word, bone or hair amongst them.

"They honestly and sincerely are the most loveliest family you could wish to call friends.

"Please, please help me take away the financial pressure that will creep up so quickly, to give this family some relief in the knowing that Connor.... a son, brother, grandson and nephew , along with a friend to many ...... will not ever be forgotten and will be remembered for the beautiful young man he was and will be laid to rest surrounded by love and support of us all."All my my love goes to Tanya, Simon and Ellen at this horrendous time ..... RIP Connor."

Among those to support the page is Allison Swainston who said: "I have two sons myself and can not even begin to think how as a family you get through this.Absolutely devastated for them."

Julie Lamb said: "Sending strength to you all Tanya, Si and Ellen, I’m so sorry for your loss."

Sunderland murder probe: Bar owner praises staff as flowers left at scene in tribute to tragic teen

Natasha Stewart said: "Thoughts are with his family and friends, he had his full life ahead of him.

"RIP Connor x."

Briony Hetherington added: "What a loving young boy Connor was.

"Such a heartbreaking time for all of his family and friends! He deserves the best send off."

Sunderland murder probe: Tributes flood in to 18-year-old attack victim

Andrea Hutchinson said: "From a mother to another, I have no words as nothing will take away this pain."

Sam Kelly wrote: "One of the best lads and a great team mate, rest easy brother x."

The page can be found via www.gofundme.com/rip-connor-brown