December 11, 2018 9.36 am This story is over 63 months old

“I will miss her laugh the most”: Friend’s emotional tribute to Grace Millane

A fundraising target in her memory has been smashed in less than 24 hours
In less than 24 hours, a fundraising target in her memory has been more than doubled.

A close friend and fellow University of Lincoln Hockey player has said Grace Millane “gave everyone around her the strength and courage to chase their ambition” in a heartfelt tribute.

Fears turned to tragedy when police searching for Grace in New Zealand discovered a body at the weekend.

The 22-year-old University of Lincoln graduate and former hockey club vice captain had been enjoying an around-the-world backpacking trip when she disappeared in the city of Auckland on December 1.

Tributes continue to pour in for Grace Millane. Photo: Facebook

A 26 year-old man appeared in court on Monday charged with her murder.

Friend and University of Lincoln Hockey President 2018/19 Samantha Ramsay said: “Grace was the kind of friend you can’t sum up in a short statement.

“She was loyal, thoughtful and always had the biggest, brightest smile on her face.

“I will miss her laugh the most. Grace loved those she knew so completely and she is loved so much in return, the word family doesn’t come close to how we feel about her.

“As well as a fierce friend, she was an inspiration – she was a strong, funny and artful woman.

“She gave everyone around her the strength and courage to chase their ambitions and we know that her beautiful memory will do the same.”

Fundraising target smashed

On Monday, the hockey club launched a fundraiser in Grace’s memory for two chosen charities; Lincolnshire cancer charity Candles and the Lucie Blackman trust – which has been supporting her family. 

In less than 24 hours, the team’s £1,000 target was doubled.

At the time of writing, more than £2,400 has been raised in her memory.

ULHC are also holding a friendly hockey match on Wednesday, December 12 to raise additional funds.

tributes have been pouring in from all over the globe.

Tributes to Grace as NZ PM apologises to family