Lucy’s memory lives on with charity walk

Chatsmore Catholic High School, in Goring Street, Goring, dedicated its annual charity walk to former student Lucy Goulding, who tragically died last June.

Around 400 students trekked from the school to Splash Point and back, raising money for Teenage Cancer Trust, Head Smart and Lucia’s Foundation – the charity set up in Lucy’s name.

Head girl Maddie Wand, 13, said: “Lucy was really popular and a lot of people were very affected by the news last year.

“We’ve really shown what a great community the school is and everyone has come together to show what we all thought of her.”

Chatsmore’s charity walk is now a regular feature on the school’s calendar, after being set up four years ago.

With the exception of a select few, who were on a school trip to France, the majority of students took part.

Each student was asked to collect sponsorship money, with the final amount yet to be announced.

Head teacher Mike Madden said: “The walk was set up four years ago and we thought it would be a good way of raising money.

“Originally, we did it for St Barnabas as we have a strong link with them but this year they decided to do it for three charities in memory of Lucy.”

Mr Madden said he was impressed with the students’ attitude to the walk and added it was something Lucy would have loved to have been involved with.

He said: “The students were brilliant in coming along and not making a fuss. It’s a big push for them all at the end of the year.

“Lucy would have been leading this. It was exactly the sort of thing she would have promoted and we miss her greatly.

“Her memory lives on for us all.”

The students had a short break for lunch at the half way point, Splash Point, before walking back to the school.

The final fundraising figure will be announced at a special assembly when the school returns after the summer holidays.

For more information about brain tumour awareness, visit charity www.headsmart.org.uk