PUPILS from Huntington School donned their walking boots and stomped 15 miles from Selby to York in a bid to raise thousands of pounds in memory of their classmate Jamie Bucknell, who died last year.

The giant sponsored walk was organised by Helen Barnie, Jamie's girlfriend, who also lost her dad, John, from a heart condition only seven weeks before Jamie's death. The money raised will go to CRY, Cardiac Risk in the Young, which has helped Jamie's family come to terms with their loss.

Helen, 14, said: "All the time since Jamie died I have wanted to so something with all of Jamie's friends to raise money for other people who may have heart problems.

"I'm really pleased so many people took part - we should raise a lot of money."

Jamie died from a heart condition while in class at Huntington School last November. The Evening Press subsequently launched a campaign to buy heart monitors for York District Hospital. The appeal raised twice as much as it set out to and a permanent memorial has been set-up in Jamie's name through CRY.

The walk took in 15 miles along the cycle track from Selby and ended at Knavesmire, where the teenagers were greeted by Jamie's parents, Debbie and Keith.

Their daughter, Jodie, also took part. Keith said: "It's great that the kids have done this in memory of Jamie. Their enthusiasm is a great support for us."

Helen's mum, Julie, added: "It has been a difficult time and this walk has helped keep Helen busy. I'm so proud of her.

"When we've got all the money in, we should have thousands."

- Strensall Football Club has arranged a charity 10km fun run on Saturday, May 4, to continue raising money in memory of Jamie.

The fun run was due to take in three laps of Strensall village, but it has now been moved to Huntington Stadium. Already 100 runners are taking part.

If you would like more information or a sponsorship form, log-on to www.strensall-fc.com.

- Robert Wilkinson Primary school is also hosting an event to raise money in memory of Jamie.

A luxury candle and accessories demonstration will be taking place on Wednesday, April 24, at 7.30pm at the Strensall school which Jamie attended.

The money raised will also go to CRY.

Those interested in attending the event can purchase tickets, for 50p, from Asda Monks Cross, The Half Moon pub in Strensall, Costcutters in Strensall or from the school itself.

Updated: 11:08 Monday, April 08, 2002