Drinkers at West Hampstead pub pay for funeral of stabbed barmaid

Drinkers at a pub in West Hampstead have exceeded the fundraising target for an appeal to help repatriate the body of a former barmaid found stabbed to death at her home earlier this month.

Regulars came out in their droves to donate to a fund started by The Alliance Pub in Mill Lane to help the family of their former barmaid Natalia Czekaj.

The 34-year-old was found dead on January 6 after police were called to reports of a serious assault at her house in Edgware.

The Polish national was a popular barmaid at the Alliance and was described as a “kind and caring person” by pub staff.

After hearing her family were financially unable to pay for the return of the body, the pub began a fundraising appeal.

A target to see them pay for the repatriation of the body was exceeded, reaching £8,400 – enough to also pay for the funeral.

In a statement the pub said: “This has truly brought to light a community full of kindness and generosity and we are truly thankful for your contributions, your kind words and all the support you have shown Natalia’s family.”