Charity in memory of murdered backpacker launches travel app

The 19-year-old student from York was killed after being robbed and pushed off a bridge at Bundaberg in Australia in April 2002, while travelling in her gap year and it is hoped the app will help to keep travellers like her safe.

Her killer, Ian Previte, attacked her while high on drugs, trying to steal money to buy more. He was convicted in 2004 of the murder and robbery of Miss Stuttle and given a life jail term.

Founders of Caroline’s Rainbow Foundation, the charity set up in her memory, came up with the Safer Travel App in 2012 as the charity marked its 10th anniversary.

The app provides safety advice and city information for more than 250 countries for anyone travelling the world on a gap year, annual holiday or business travel.

Richard Stuttle, Caroline’s brother and founder and director of the York-based charity, said: “The app combines the knowledge and experiences of students and travellers from all over the world, giving valuable first-hand information and insight from people who have visited or come from a destination.”

Mr Stuttle is based at York St John University’s Phoenix Centre and has been working with students to help develop the app, which allows travellers to plan their trip with useful city information, safety advice and information about common crimes.

It gives emergency services information and the locations of embassies, police stations, airports, tourist offices and railway stations. It also provides details of places to visit in cities, as well as local customs and traditions.

The Safer Travel App is launched today and can be accessed via www.carolinesrainbowfoundation.org and is available to download via iTunes and the Apple App store.