A CHARITY set up in memory of a South Lakeland woman who died following a tragic car crash has raised more than £100,000.

Michelle Jurd, 41, from Grange-over-Sands, lost her life in a collision with an articulated lorry at Gilpin Bridge on the A590 in November 2009.

The Michelle Jurd Memorial Trust was founded the following year and has since raised around £110,000 for good causes.

Husband Neil Jurd said that although the trust was founded out of tragedy, he thought they were 'doing something positive'.

"It's complex," he said. "I cannot say I am delighted because the roots of it are so sad but I am very pleased."

On Saturday (November 18), the Trust will hold its annual ball at the Netherwood Hotel, Grange, with hopes of adding yet more vital funds to the charity's pot.

"This year’s ball has already sold out, and has some brilliant auction prizes, including a helicopter flight and a visit to the Aston Martin factory," said Mr Judd. "We have been well supported by local businesses, including Armstrong Ward, Peter Banks Jewellers and Alertcall."

The ball, which the charity has hosted since 2010, is always well supported and directly helps local schools and youth groups, such as Grange Primary School, Allithwaite School, Lancashire Army Cadet Force and Cumbria Army Cadet Force.

Mr Jurd, who now lives in Kendal, described it as a 'well dressed' event and this year he expected around 140 to attend.

"It's a great party," he said. "It's just really good fun. Every year we have a core of the same people and then a whole lot of new people."

The trust funds adventurous training and arts based extra-curricular activities for young people and provides grants to service charities.

Each year the income is divided among schools and youth groups to allow young people to take part in challenging developmental activities, including kayaking, climbing, orienteering and theatre workshops.

Significant grants are also made to service charities, primarily the RAF Benevolent Fund and Gurkha Welfare Trust.

Guests at the party this year will include Mark Underhill OBE, Johnny Lighten MBE and local businessman James Batchelor of Alertacall.