Pupils and staff from a Darwen school have raised more than £2,500 in memory of a teenager who died last year.

Holly Brand, from Darwen Aldridge Community Academy, lost her battle with pulmonary hypertension in June, aged just 15.  

The school said her death left an 'indelible mark on the school community', so pupils wanted to show their support to Derian House in her memory.

Lancashire Telegraph: Holly Brand, from Darwen Aldridge Community Academy

Derian House is a local charity offering crucial assistance to children with life-limiting conditions and their families. 

Led by Mrs Taylor, the community liaison lead, and with support from sixth form students, the school’s Christmas fayre and 'elf day', raised an £1183.14.

Among the standout contributors to the fundraising success were Year 11 students Keenan, Jess, and Cayden, whose ideas of selling 'elf army' key rings generated £337.59. 

Further generous donations from a community fun day meant a staggering £2,500 was raised for Derian House.
  
Holly’s family is now supporting and taking part in a sponsored Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge on April 20, to raise additional funds for Derian House.

The Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge will see participants tackle the summits of Pen-y-ghent, Whernside, and Ingleborough, covering a distance of approximately 24 miles in 12 hours.

You can donate to the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge by clicking here.

Principal Claire Bailey is also set to embark on a sponsored skydive in July to help with the fundraising efforts.

The school said: “Your support is instrumental in our mission to honour Holly's memory and make a tangible difference in the lives of others. 
 
“Together, let us continue to embody the spirit of compassion and solidarity that defines our community. In doing so, we ensure that Holly's legacy of kindness and generosity endures.”