A public appeal has been launched to cover the funeral costs of two children who died after the car they were travelling in crashed into Loch Nan Druimean last week.

Leia McCorrisken, three, and Seth McCorrisken, two, died on Wednesday when their mother’s car went off the A816, north of Kilmelford village.

Read more: Call for a safety barrier after youngsters die in car crash

The children’s mother, Hazel, 36, from the isle of Luing, managed to escape from the vehicle, which ended up under 40ft of water in Loch Nan Druimean. 

She was taken to Oban, Lorn and Islands Hospital and later discharged.

Sarah Stopford has established an appeal on crowdfunding website JustGiving to contribute to the funeral costs of the two children. 

On the appeal page Sarah wrote: "I know there isn't anything that any of us can do or say to ease Hazel and Neil's hearts. 

"I know that the Shire is full of good souls who are good at rallying together and I thought that we could rally together now and raise some money to help give Leia and Seth a beautiful send off."

Read more: Man who tried to save children who died in Loch nan Druimnean car crash says water was too deep

Though the appeal was only set up on Saturday, it has already raised £10,875 of the £15,000 target as hundreds of people have rushed to donate. 

One contributor Claire Davis commented: "I believe this is an amazing amount of money to raise. No parent should have to pay for their children's funeral so this is at least a way to make the worry a little less. 

"I so want them to have breathing space from money ties and this really helps."

Heather Bellshaw wrote: "What a terrible tragedy...there are no words I can share to ease your pain, in our hearts and thoughts and prayers. God bless you all."

Sarah added: "The amount of money raised in under 24 hours is astonishing! Everyone has been unbelievably generous. 

Read more: Call for a safety barrier after youngsters die in car crash

"People have been so so kind and the love shown to Hazel, Neil, Luke and family is absolutely beautiful."

To donate to the appeal, click here.