THE girlfriend of Jamie Bucknell today pledged her support to the Evening Press Jamie's Have A Heart Appeal.

Helen Barnie, 14, had been going out with Huntington School pupil Jamie, for two years before he died.

Jamie, also 14, collapsed and died while at school earlier this month. He had suffered a heart attack. Jamie's death came as a double blow to Helen, as just weeks earlier her father John had died, also from a heart condition.

The Have A Heart appeal aims to raise £7,500, which will be used to buy ten portable heart monitors for York District Hospital. The monitors, which can be taken home, record information that can be used to assess the patient's condition.

Backing the appeal, Helen, of Huntington, said: "I think the appeal is a great idea. It's a good way to remember Jamie and to help other people who might be unwell. I really hope everyone in York helps out in some way, even if it is just by donating a few pounds to the fund."

Helen's mother, Julie,and brother, Michael, are also "fully behind" the appeal.

Julie, 40, said she plans to organise a "family orientated" event to raise money for the fund.

Staff at ASDA at Monks Cross, York, will be joining in the fundraising effort tomorrow and Sunday. Children from Huntington will alos be helping to raise hundreds of pounds towards the appeal with a tombola and collection buckets.

If you are organising a fundraising activity ring Emma Harrison or Richard Edwards on 01904 653051. Donations can be sent to either reporter at 76-86 Walmgate, York, YO1 9YN. Please make cheques payable to Jamie's Have A Heart Appeal.

Updated: 12:34 Friday, November 30, 2001