A TRIBUTE appeal in memory of a Forest sport star’s daughter who died earlier this month has raised more than £6,700.

Former England and Glamorgan cricketer Steve James’ 21-year-old daughter passed away in a Cardiff hospital on Saturday, February 8, after being suddenly taken ill.

A university friend of Bethan’s, who was studying journalism at Cardiff University, has now launched a fundraiser in aid of her family and two charities that were close to the student’s heart.

Emily Wynne’s GoFundMe In Memory of Bethan Amy James page says: “Beth was simply one of a kind. She was loving, smart and always putting others before herself. Her positivity filled the room, she was always happy and never failed to put a smile on other people’s faces.

“She was the first person to want to help others and having being diagnosed with Crohn’s disease wanted to raise awareness and help those affected by the condition.

“The page is set up in memorial to Beth and her outlook on life. It is both to help her family at this most unbearably tragic time and to support Crohn’s and Colitis UK in their fantastic work.

“Our hearts are broken. Beth meant the world to so many people and we’re so proud of everything that she achieved in a life that was beginning to blossom into something special.”

Steve, 52, a sports journalist with The Times, who also played rugby for home club Lydney RFC, posted in response: “So humbled by this. Heartfelt thanks to everyone for their incredibly kind support.”

He added: “Our daughter Bethan’s funeral will be held on Tuesday, March 3, at 1.15pm at Llandaff Cathedral, Cardiff, followed by a family burial. We would like everyone attending to join us for refreshments at Glamorgan CCC afterwards.”

As a gesture of support for the family, the England cricket team donned black armbands for a Twenty20 match against South Africa.

Steve, who went to Monmouth School and coaches cricket there, said they were “honoured” by the “gesture”.