A CHARITY night in memory of a little girl who died from meningitis raised over £1,200, mainly for research into the disease.

Six-year-old Shannon Jayne Peters, of Duke Street, St Helens, died suddenly in Alder Hey Hospital last November of the Meningitis C strain.

The St Mary and St Thomas Primary School pupil hadn't displayed common symptoms of the illness but was rushed to hospital after complaining of feeling unwell during the night.

Devastated family members decided to organise the charity evening at the Royal Naval Club in Volunteer Street in memory of the happy-go-lucky youngster.

Some of Shannon's Christmas presents were raffled, including a Barbie bike and other gifts, and a number of other prizes were donated, including a signed football from Liverpool and Everton Football Club.

Shannon's grandfather, Leonard Peters, told the Star: "When Shannon died we were all devastated because she was such a lively and bubbly character. The people in the community have been excellent. We never thought so many would come forward and help this worthy cause.

"I would like to thank the various family members who worked so hard selling raffle tickets throughout the town centre, and also everyone who bought tickets, especially customers at the Duke of Cambridge and the Tapas Bar pubs in Duke Street and staff and pupils at Shannon's school."

A total of £860 is being presented to the Liverpool-based Meningitis Trust while another £360 has been donated to plant a 'tear drop garden' in memory of Shannon, complete with a special bench in the grounds of St Mary and St Thomas Primary School.