The family of a kind-hearted volunteer who died after being overpowered by a freak wave while swimming has raised thousands of pounds in aid of children in Cambodia.

The Rose and Crown pub in Sandridge recently hosted a ‘mini festival’ in honour of Alice Barnett, one of two British charity workers who died in South Africa late last year, just four days before she was due to return home.

She was the granddaughter of Pat Knight (formerly Gee), a well-known teacher in St Albans and Harpenden.

Suzie Barnett, Alice’s mum, described the festival as a “fabulous day in glorious sunshine”.

She thanked “all our wonderful family and friends who helped make the day such a massive success by donating their time, energy and unwavering support.

“They have shown an incredible amount of love and compassion to us all and for that we will always be grateful.”

The event resulted in £3,500 being raised, “which will make an incredible difference to the Future of Khmer Children organisation (FKC) in Cambodia”.

Alice, who loved music and dancing, worked on several projects supporting local, impoverished communities in Cambodia and South Africa.

Money raised since her tragic death has already helped fund a new classroom at a school where Alice worked.