THE family of a teenager killed in a car crash have thanked all those who have donated to the Katie Johnson Community Trust Fund to help them buy a headstone.

Former Palmer’s College student Katie was just 19 when she died alongside her best friend Georgia Hammond, 17, from Aveley, when the car they were travelling in hit a lamppost on the A13.

The tragedy occurred near to the Stifford Clays turn-off on February 10, 2008, as the girls were heading back from visiting a friend on Canvey.

The first event to start raising cash was a bike ride to Southend in December, which raised £750 towards the £2,000 target.

Katie’s dad, Brian Johnson, 42, took part in the ride along with friend Adam Deas, Barry Durrant and Holly Town on December 12.

Mr Johnson said: “We want to say a big thank you to all those who donated money towards Katie’s cause.” Jack Ganney, 13, from Elm Road, Grays, who plays for Belhus Colts Football Club, organised a penalty shoot-out and raised £160 for the cause, with many of the donations coming from punters at the Bricklayer’s Arms in Bridge Road, Grays.

Mr Johnson added: “Jack saw the article in the Gazette and off his own back asked his parents if he could do something for Katie. I went round to see the family to say thank you.”

Mr Johnson also thanked Ormiston Park Academy, in Nethan Drive, Aveley after the school where Katie used to go when it was Belhus Chase donated £300.

To donate to the fund, go into HSBC bank in Grays High Street.