IN A fairer world, Jamie Bucknell would today have been just another teenager looking forward to Christmas Day. Sadly, this special young man, a generous, lively and popular boy, who was known by all for his "amazing smile and infectious laugh", was taken from his family and friends when he collapsed and died in November during a lesson at Huntington School.

The sudden, abrupt death from a heart attack of the 14-year-old from Strensall shattered all those who knew and loved him.

On November 29, this newspaper launched an appeal in Jamie's name, to stand as a lasting tribute to a much-loved teenager. The aim was to raise £7,500 to pay for 12 new cardiac event monitors. These monitors can be taken home by people with heart problems. They record readings that can be downloaded at the hospital to allow doctors to make an instant assessment.

The appeal struck a chord with people in and around York. Support came from panto dame Berwick Kaler and York City Football Club; from a pensioner donating her winter fuel allowance of £200 to a teenager devising a TV quiz to raise money. Jamie's old primary school held a skipping event; another primary school raised money through its Christmas show.

Closer to home, Jamie's grandparents donated enough money to buy outright one heart monitor for the appeal in memory of their grandson.

Many, many people responded to this emotional appeal - and, in less than a month, the required sum has been raised.

Jamie's grandmother thanks "the wonderful people of York" for their support. His father says he "can't believe how kind people have been". The spontaneous generosity of York people has once again been shown. Often before we have seen the way in which people will rise to the occasion, wanting to help in the best way they can.

Jamie Bucknell will never be forgotten by those who loved him - and his name will long live in the minds of people in the area.

Updated: 09:44 Monday, December 24, 2001