A BRAVE teenager who tirelessly raised money to fund cancer research has died from the illness.

Sarah McPheet lost her battle against Hodgkins lymphoma on Sunday (Jan 8). Her death came just over a year after she was diagnosed.

A special assembly was held in her memory at Woodhey High School where she was a pupil.

Sarah, whose family live on Major Street in Ramsbottom, found out she had cancer of the lymphatic system, part of the body's immune system, just days before Christmas 1999.

Her mum Sue told the Bury Times how their lives had been turned upside down after finding out about the illness. But Sarah, previously known locally as Sarah Hutchinson, was determined to throw a lifeline to other cancer sufferers. She embarked on a fund-raising campaign which included abseiling down Peel Tower.

Community organisations, businesses and residents rallied round and raised around £10,000 for the Young Oncology Unit at Christie Hospital which treated her.

The Manchester United fan's courage was rewarded by a visit from some of the team's star players. Sarah played on the school's girls football team until her illness.

Mrs Pam Burrow, deputy head at Woodhey, said: "We were deeply saddened to learn of Sarah's death. She was a very special pupil, who always had a smile.

"Sarah planned to do a sponsored parachute jump this summer with some of her friends to raise more money."

Sarah's funeral will take place on Monday. Details are yet to be finalised.