In memory of a best friend

Ten-year-old Lowbourne Junior School pupils Ben Weatherburn and Charlie Steed wanted to mark the first anniversary of their friend's death by raising money for charity.

Writing letters to the Meningitis Research Foundation and Daniel's 38-year-old mother Jacqui, who lives in Savernake Avenue, the two friends decided to organise a sponsored walk around Melksham.

Raising more than £600 they are now planning to donate all the money to the Daniel Higgs Trust which is a dedicated fund set-up within The Meningitis Research Foundation.

Proud mother Maggie Weatherburn, 40, of Forest Road, said the two boys came up with the idea all by themselves.

She said: "They knew it was the anniversary of Daniel's death coming up. They discussed what they wanted to do in his memory. We were extremely proud of them they weren't worried how much money they raised it was more for Daniel's memory.

"They have found it hard being without him. The children have coped really well. It has been a difficult year."

Daniel died in the Royal United Hospital in Bath on February 28, 2002, just hours after contracting a deadly strain of meningitis.

The death of the football-loving pupil, who played for Melksham Park Boys, hit the school hard and pupils wrote heartfelt messages in a book of condolence.

Mrs Weatherburn's son Ben played in the same football team as Daniel.

She said: "At the time of Daniel's death it was explained what meningitis was and how it affects people. They were in the same class and got on so well.

"We have had the full backing from the school and Mrs Higgs."

The two boys went on the internet before Christmas and logged-on to the Menin-gitis Research Foundation's website. The Trust sent-back a letter to the boys, along with balloons, leaflets and posters to help with the fundraising efforts.

Around 50 people took part in the walk around the town on March 16 including Daniel's former school friends, teachers and parents.