A CROWDFUNDING page has raised more than £21,000 for the family of Minehead Community College IT teacher Stephen Chapple and his wife Jennifer, fund organisers said this week.

A spokesperson said: “We have been completely overwhelmed with the amazing response.

“It is a real reflection of how special Steve and Jennifer were.”

The couple died from multiple stab wounds in their home in Dragon Rise, Norton Fitzwarren on Sunday, November 21, while their two sons, aged five and six were asleep in bed.

Their next door neighbour, 34-year-old Collin Reeves, has been charged with the murder of Stephen, 36 and Jennifer, 33. The former Royal Engineers commando has been remanded in custody to appear at Bristol Crown Court on December 23 for his plea and trial preparation hearing.

Money has poured in to an internet JustGiving page set up by friends to support the family and the couple’s two sons. Donations have come from the UK and abroad and include £540 raised by residents of a local holiday park.

One of the organisers said: “We cannot thank people enough for all the love and support they have shown through donations and extremely moving messages. The family are incredibly touched.

“We can’t undo what has happened but we can surround Steve and Jenni’s beautiful boys with happy memories, love and kindness, so that they grow up to be beautiful people just like their parents.”

In a message this week, the family said: “We would like to thank everyone for their kind words and donations at this time. They wish to let people know that the boys are safe, with lots of people supporting and looking after them.”

Minehead Community College, where Mr Chapple had taught since 2017, has cancelled open evenings and other events in memory of one of the school’s most popular teachers.

Head teacher Gregg Mockridge said: “Steve was a fantastic colleague and a brilliant teacher who cared deeply about his students. He led innovations in the use of technology across the school as well as within his own teaching.

“He was an exceptional person and is greatly missed.”

Mrs Chapple worked at a garden centre near her home where staff are still devastated by the loss of a friend and colleague. Manager Rob Brooks said: “She was an absolutely lovely lady.”