FRIENDS of tragic murder victim Sophie Lancaster have planned a month-long series of fundraising events in the lead up to the anniversary of her death.

Gap year student Sophie, 20, died after falling into a coma following a vicious attack by a gang of teens who targeted her and her boyfriend Robert Maltby in Stubbylee Park, Bacup, because of their ‘goth’ looks.

Sophie had been trying to protect Robert and was cradling him in her arms when she was kicked repeatedly to the head and body.

The former Haslingden High School pupil’s killers, Ryan Herbert, 16, and Brendan Harris, 15, were given life sentences for her murder earlier this year.

Since Sophie's death on August 24, her friends and family have raised over £22,000 for the Sophie Lancaster Memorial Found-ation, which was set up by her mum, Sylvia.

The money will be used to raise awareness of the prejudice and violence faced by people from alternative subcultures.

A further 15 fund-raising events will take place this month, starting with a 14-day sponsored walk that sets off today.

Five of Sophie’s friends will complete the Coast to Coast walk, from St Bede’s to Robin Hoods Bay.

They will sell the foundation’s SOPHIE wrist bands (Stamp Out Prejudice, Hatred and Intolerance Everywhere) along the way.

Bacup Folk Club will hold an event at the Conservative Club from noon on Saturday August 9, with the music continuing at the town’s football club at 8pm.

Sophie’s friend Chris Livesey has organised a crown green bowling tournament in Stubbylee Park the following day, in what has been labelled a bid to ‘take back the park’ for people who wish to spend peaceful time there.

The Colne and Burnley Blues Festival falls over the anniversary weekend of Sophie’s death and the event’s International Stage will be dedicate to her memory.

Fundraising organiser Kate Conboy-Greenwood said: “Sadly August 24 is the first anniversary of Sophie’s death.

"We thank everyone who has supported our efforts to keep Sophie’s memory alive and to raise awareness of the violence faced by people from alternative subcultures.

“The fundraising efforts have raised over £22,000, which is staggering. We thank everyone for their hard work.”

Events are also taking place around the country and the month will end with a burlesque ball in Hastings, which will feature the Channel 4’s Faking It star Scarlet Fever.

Visit www.myspace.com/inmemory ofsophie to find out more about the SOPHIE campaign.