A campaigning dad who lost his daughter in a motorcycle accident today urged people to back a charity which helped him cope with his tragedy.

Melanie Leighton, 25, of York Road, Southend, died in a collision with a car in Kiln Road, Thundersley last April.

Charity call - Chris Leigton with a picture of his daughter Melanie, victim of a road crash Picture: MIKE MINERS

She had survived years as a motorbike courier in London before she was killed.

Father Chris said: "When she died, I turned to RoadPeace for help. It's a national charity for people who are affected by road traffic accidents and it offers crucial information, advice and support."

Now Chris, of Point Road, Canvey, is appealing to south Essex residents to help the charity, which he says receives no financial backing from the Government.

He said: "I am appealing to people who have been affected by a road crash to become members of RoadPeace so that we can work together for changes that will stop the needless loss of life - and suffering.

"I would like to ask people please to help prevent death and injury on the roads by sending a donation to the charity."

RoadPeace can be contacted by telephone on 0208 8385102 or by post at PO Box 2579, London NW10 3PW.

Published Thursday, April 10, 2003

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