AROUND 1,000 people connected to Ballakermeen High School will take part in a memorial walk next month to remember staff members and pupils who have died.

Staff, students, parents and friends of the school will take part in the charity walk on July 12 – something which the school organises every two years.

The first memorial walk took place in 2001 to commemorate the life and contribution to education of Vida Wilson, the head of lower school, who had died from cancer. Since then it has become a regular event.

Headteacher Adrienne Burnett said: "We remember with gratitude the contribution made by students and staff who have died, some in tragic circumstances. This occasion helps us to recall their memory and to continue to show our appreciation of their work within the school, as well as the life of the Isle of Man.

"This year we are especially aware of the sadness of young lives cut short and determined to do something positive as a mark of respect."

Students will walk along Marine Drive to Port Soderick where they will have lunch before returning inland following footpaths near to the Power Station.

They will collect donations which the school's five houses will split between nominated charities. Previous walks have raised between £16,000 and £18,000.

Assistant headteacher Paul Kane organises the walk. He said: "This is a very special day for the school. It means a lot of extra work for all concerned but people are glad to do their bit because of the reason for the walk and the support it allows us to give to charities.

"As a school we enjoy a great deal of support from the community. This event gives us the chance to give something back, through donations to charities."