PUPILS have raised thousands of pounds for cancer charities in memory of one of their school mates who died recently after a long battle with the disease.

About 60 Rivington and Blackrod High School students took part in a fancy dress sponsored walk from the School to the Reebok Stadium and about 20 others ran 12.5 miles around the Bolton Arena track last week to raise money following the death of colleague Gareth Mace from cancer.

Gareth was an extremely popular student at the school, who loved Bolton Wanderers, He was deputy headboy at the school.

He first developed cancer in his thigh when aged 11. The youngster had to undergo treatment which included radiotherapy and chemotherapy.

But he later developed cancer in his lungs and then further down his leg and eventually had to have an amputation of his left leg.

But the disease came back and Gareth died in November 2002, at the age of 17.

Gareth's mother Elaine, of Chorley Old Road, Horwich, said: "He fought for a long, long time. He continued at school for as long as he could and he achieved so much. He was an exceptional pupil, and anyone who met him will never forget him."

Since Gareth's death his school friends have raised more than £3,000 for cancer charities like Christies Hospital, through events such as raffles and an auction. Rivington and Blackrod student Andrew Settle, aged 17, was one of Gareth's friends. He said: "The event was brilliant. It was a bit cold but everyone got wrapped up.

"We've not had all the sponsor forms handed in yet, but with all the money raised put together we could have a total of £6,000."

Mrs Mace said she has been extremely touched by all the students' efforts to do something in honour of her son.

"They have raised so much in such a short amount of time. It says so much about what they thought of Gareth."