A celebration of the life of the much-loved Neston grandmother who was tragically killed in a shark attack in Western Australia will be held in her hometown.
Friends and colleagues of former University of Chester nursing lecturer Doreen Collyer are invited to honour her memory at Neston Cricket Club on Wednesday, June 22.
Mrs Collyer, 60, had been diving off the coast of Mindarie with a friend when she was attacked by a great white shark on Sunday (June 5).
Related: Tributes paid to Neston shark attack victim Doreen Collyer
She and her husband David moved to Perth five years ago so they could be close to their son Ben, who emigrated some years earlier, and watch their only grandchild Daisy grow up.
Impact on 'so many' lives
Doreen’s four brothers and sisters have spoken of their pride for their sibling and thanked well-wishers for their messages of sympathy in the days following the tragedy.
Sister Bev Beavan told The Chronicle: “We would like to thank everyone for all the kind thoughts and messages that we have received following the tragic loss of our sister Doreen Collyer.
“We’ve been taken aback by the impact she has had on so many people’s lives which makes us very proud.
“David and family are returning from Australia for a celebration of Doreen’s life, which is being held on the 22nd of June at Neston Cricket Club between the hours of 12pm and 4pm.
“If any of Doreen’s friends or colleagues would like to attend we know that Dave would love to see you.”
Mrs Collyer, who had recently become an Australian citizen, worked as a lecturer at the University of Chester’s Faculty of Health and Social Care.
Following her move to Perth, she secured the role of director of postgraduate studies at the city’s Edith Cowan University’s School of Nursing and Midwifery, where she also lectured.
Scholarship bid
A campaign to establish a scholarship at Edith Cowan University in Mrs Collyer’s memory has been launched.
Students, colleagues and members of the public have so far helped to raise more than $3,500 through an online fund.
Mrs Beavan added: “We understand that Edith Cowen University, where Doreen worked in Australia, are setting up a scholarship in remembrance of Doreen, and we would ask for any donations to be made to that scholarship.”
To donate, click here .
