Cambridge Regional College student hosts fundraiser in memory of her mother

A student at Cambridge Regional College hosted a night-time charity football marathon in memory of her mother, who died from a brain tumour.

Sports studies students Emily Brown, 19, and Katie Brandon, 18, are hoping the event will help raise hundreds of pounds for the Brain Tumour Charity.

The charity is one that is close to their hearts after Emily lost her mother, Kerry, to a brain tumour almost five years ago.

"We wanted to raise money for a cause that meant something not just to me but to my family,Emily told the Cambridge Independent.

"My mum passed away of a brain tumour in February 2013 and would it be great to raise as much money as possible to help the charity."

The two teenagers enlisted the help of 20 of their classmates to play football throughout the night on Tuesday (January 9) - keeping the ball in play for a marathon eight hours.

Emily and Katie came up with the plan for the football fundraiser together and put their case for supporting the Brain Tumour Charity to fellow students.

Emily explained ahead of last night's event:"As a class we voted on the charity to support and when the students heard about my mother they chose the Brain Tumour Charity.

"Everyone in our class could join in and raise money for a good cause while doing something they enjoy.

"Our original target was £200 but we raised £100 in just two days so have increased our target to £500.

"We're hoping for lots of support for a cause that really means something to us."

The event was held at the college between 10pm and 6am.

Sport studies lecturer Neil Andrews said Emily and Katie's fellow students were keen to help them raise as much as possible.

"The Brain Tumour Charity really means something to Emily because of the sad loss of her mother, and she and Katie have put together a great fundraiser supported by her fellow students,he said.

The Brain Tumour Charity is at the forefront of the fight to defeat brain tumours, funding pioneering research and providing support for those affected.

To donate, visit Emily and Katie's fundraising page at justgiving.com/fundraising/emily-brown60.