NEARLY 300 people took part in a fun run in memory of teen Megan Lee who died after suffering a severe allergic reaction.

Organised by family members of the 15-year-old, the 5k run aimed to raise awareness and cash for the Anaphylaxis Campaign which supports people at risk of severe allergies.

The St Christopher’s CE High School pupil, from Oswaldtwistle, died on New Year’s Day after eating a takeway meal.

Children, mums with prams and dog owners were among the 275 runners taking part in the event which was opened by Hyndburn Mayor Cllr Peter Britcliffe.

Before the starting gun was fired a minute’s applause was held in honour of Megan, whose mum and dad Gemma and Adam also ran.

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Megan’s granddad Stephen Lee, who helped organise the run, said they expected to raise around £2,000.

He said: “We lost my granddaughter on New Year’s Eve in what were tragic circumstances and obviously the family is totally devastated.

“We have been overwhelmed by the support everybody has given to the family - friends, neighbours and colleagues.

“Events like this raise money for the Anaphylaxis campaign. If we can help prevent this tragedy happening to anyone else it will be worthwhile.”

A number of running clubs had thrown their weight behind the event including Hyndburn Athletic Club, Accrington Road Runners and Huncoat United Junior Football Club.

Adam Lee, Megan’s dad, said: “Megan would have been proud. It shows how much she was loved.

“The support from Hyndburn and throughout Lancashire is keeping us going.

“We all want to keep working to raise awareness and get information out there. The number of people diagnosed with allergies is growing.”

Megan’s aunt Kerry Ainsworth, 31, said: “We just want to raise as much awareness as we can and do something in Megan’s memory. The turnout has been amazing today.”

Cllr Britcliffe said: “The fact that food outlets across Lancashire have had to think again about their menus and look at what they are doing means people will be safer in the future.”

Tony Booth, 41, from Clayton, who was the first adult over the line, said: “When I saw it advertised there was no hesitation about coming down and helping to shows support. It is such worthy cause.”