THE memory of a schoolboy who died while playing football will live on when his community comes together for a sponsored dog walk.

News of the sudden death of 12-year-old James Cook last May devastated those in his home town of Bishop Auckland and the surrounding communities.

The youngster was enjoying a kickabout with his friends before he became unwell and collapsed, and despite being flown to hospital by the Great North Air Ambulance Service (GNAAS), he died.

Nearly a year on from the tragedy, his family and friends will come together to raise money for the service which fought so hard to save him.

James’ mother, Louise Cook said she hopes the fundraiser will keep her son’s “light shining” as she continues to grieve for him.

“Going forward it gives us comfort to know he’s not forgotten about,” Mrs Cook, 48, said. “I hope lots more events will continue to keep his memory alive.”

James was a student at St John’s School and Sixth Form College, a Catholic Academy, in Bishop Auckland and played for St Mary’s Junior Football Club.

The walk is being organised by family friend and co-owner of Shildon’s Classy Paws dog grooming, Jayne Petty, whose son, Jack, played alongside James.

More than 100 dog owners and their pooches are expected to attend the fundraiser, which will be held at Crimdon Dene beach, on May 13.

Mrs Cook, along with her husband Ian and daughter Rebecca, 18, will take part in the four-mile walk with their dog Willow, who joined the family in October and has been instrumental in helping the family with their grief.

Mrs Cook said: “She has brought so much love and joy to the family.”

James’ teammates will also take part in the fundraiser and proudly wear their special strips which have James’ photograph printed on them.

Mrs Cook added: “James would have loved the walk. He would have been in among it all with his mates from the team.”

Mrs Petty, who co-owns the business with Laura Coxon, said the pair also hoped to have special bandanas made for all the dogs taking part while participants are encouraged to wear blue as a mark of respect.

She said: “We always use the words of keeping James’ light shining and that’s what we are going to do.”

The family hope to raise £1,000 for the charity and have already received more than £350 in donations.

Anyone wishing to take part should meet the group in the main car park at Crimdon Dene Beach, postcode TS27 4BN, at 10.30am for an 11am start.

Participants should wear wellies or other suitable footwear and clothing.

To donate or for more information visit justgiving.com/fundraising/jayne-petty or search for Charity Dog Walk in memory of James Cook supporting the GNAA on Facebook.