School showing its love for Layla-Rose

ON your marks . . . the mini-marathon in memory of ex-pupil Layla Rose

KIND-HEARTED staff and pupils at Oasis Academy Limeside, where Layla-Rose was a Year 1 pupil, organised a fundraising event in her memory on Friday.

So far, the school's 350 pupils and 50 members of staff have raised £1,500 for the Meningitis Now charity by holding the mini-marathon complete with face-painting, cake stalls and a raffle.

Parents ran a cake stall at the event with pink and blue cupcakes, while local residents and businesses donated prizes for the raffle.

An assembly took place in the morning to remember Layla-Rose, with the focus also on the community coming together to fundraise.

Chaplain Andrew Smyth said: "The day-long event was amazing and exciting.

"Everyone came together and everyone was willing to take part.

"Layla-Rose was full of life with a big smile.

"She was always dancing and is greatly missed by all of us at Limeside."

Oasis Academy linked up with marathon runner Sean Hand, who is part of the wider Oasis 'family'.

Sean has already raised £2,200 for Meningitis Now as he gears up to run the Virgin Money London Marathon on April 23.

Sean, from London, said: "After hearing Layla-Rose's story, I'll be incredibly proud to be raising money for Meningitis Now.

"I hope this can bring back some positivity at a difficult time."

He added: "Having grown up in nearby Denton, I'm a proud northerner living down in London, so I'll also be extremely proud to represent Limeside and the local community in this challenge."

The money donated will go towards Meningitis Now ­- Layla-Rose's family's chosen charity - and to raise awareness about Layla's Law, set up by her uncle Stephen Carter to increase access for MenB vaccinations for under-twos.

Sean's fundraising page can be found at uk.virginmoneygiving.com/SeanHand.