A YEAR after the collapse and death of Tilbury Gateway Academy student Kayla Ere, the school has organised a fundraising campaign for the charity CRY (Cardiac Risk in the Young).

Kayla, 14, collapsed at the school on Thursday, 2 March and despite the best efforts of the medical team at the Academy and paramedics and doctors who were quickly on scene before the air ambulance transferred her to King's College Hospital in London, she failed to recover.

The teenager had no previous medical conditions and her death shocked the local community who immediately rallied to help her family, raising £15,185.

A statement today (Wednesday, 13 March), from the school says: "We were very fortunate to have a visit from Sian Donnelly, a volunteer with the charity who came to meet some of our Student Leadership Team and not only shared her inspirational story but to help the students create an awareness plan about cardiac risks for young people.

"The charity not only works alongside families and organisations which have been impacted by sudden deaths, but also offers support with screening for any parents who would like their child to receive it.

"It was wonderful to see students and staff coming together to remember Kayla and raise money for this amazing charity who do so much to support family and friends through their tragic loss."

Students and staff at Gateway.

Head of school Mrs Grainne McLaughlin said: "I am incredibly proud of all of our students for showing tremendous compassion and care.

"Kayla was an amazing young lady and we will continue to raise money for CRY in her honour."

In the wake of Kayla's death her mum Francesca paid tribute to her 'little girl' who 'impacted so many lives'.

She said: "It's a sad situation for me but at the same time I am grateful to the school authority, Mrs McLaughlin, staff and teachers that stood by me during this tragic time.

"This pain cannot leave me but with the kind support am receiving from everyone all I want to say is am very proud of the impact my little girl had made in her short life lived and the few years she had spent in Gateway Academy.

"Kayla was a great child and she had made me a proud mother and also impacted so many lives.

"I am so grateful and appreciate your prayers, love, care. I really appreciate your support and prayers and I know it's helping me heal."