STUDENTS and staff at a sporty school ran a collective marathon in memory for Claire Squires who died running the London Marathon last month.

Around 52 pupils and teachers at Lydiard Park Academy, in Grange Park, each ran a mile around Lydiard Park yesterday to raise money for 30-year-old Claire’s chosen charity Samaritans.

After news of her death near the end of the race on April 22, members of the public have donated more than £1m to her chosen cause, through her Just Giving page.

Organiser Vicki Buchalik said the pupils and staff were struck by Claire’s death and wanted to do something in her memory.

She said: “When pupils and staff heard about Claire’s story we wanted to contribute. It makes pupils aware of the positive contribution that people such as Claire make to charities.

“The pupils have been collecting sponsorship and we asked if they could raise between £5 and £10 each.

“If we could raise £300, that would be great.”

Pupil Sam King said: “The Samaritans is a charity which offers emotional support. They have visited Lydiard Park Academy to discuss the work they do in Swindon.

“The collective marathon will help highlight that.”

Linda Morgan, director of Swindon and District Samaritans, said: “Samaritans would like to say thank you to all people who have kindly donated and are raising money in Claire’s memory.

“We wish it was not under these heartbreaking circumstances.

“During this challenging time, Claire’s family has found comfort from the amazing reaction.

“The warmth shown to Claire’s family, friends and the Samaritans has been extraordinary. Claire has touched the lives of thousands.

“Samaritans are usually the ones offering support, but we have been overwhelmed by the way in which so many people have supported us.”

Samaritans are available for confidential emotional support 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The helpline number is 08457 90 90 90.