SIXTH form students are determined to turn tragedy into triumph by raising funds in memory of a former pupil who died of a rare heart condition.

The 70-strong team from Durham Sixth Form Centre is hoping to raise thousands of pounds for the charity Cry (Cardiac Risk in the Young) by taking part in the Great North Run on Tyneside later this month.

Levon Morland, 22, from West Rainton, near Durham, died in his sleep last year from the rare disorder Wolfe Parkinson White syndrome.

Yesterday, Levon's father Jeff travelled to the Sixth Form Centre to give each of those taking part a red T-shirt bearing the Cry logo.

Mr Morland, who is divisional officer and regional political secretary with the Amicus union, has campaigned tirelessly since his son's death.

In just over a year, he has helped raise £40,000.

Mr Morland, who has received extensive support in his campaign, is working towards the establishment of national screening, counselling and support for bereaved families, and research funding for the rare cardiac conditions.

Levon's sudden death shattered his close family, including his twin brother Aran.

Yesterday, Mr Morland spoke movingly to students during his visit to the sixth form centre.

His family, he told the students, had known of Levon's condition but had not been told it could prove fatal or that it could be cured or treated with medication.

He urged those taking part in the run to be given a simple ECG (Electro Cardiograph) test beforehand.

Mr Morland said: "Although these are very rare conditions, it is those who are fit who are at the most risk.''

He thanked the young fundraisers, and added: "He was one of you and we are bringing it home.''

As well as the student team, a number of staff members will take part in the half marathon, including the centre's principal, Mike Brett.

Richard Miller, who taught both Levon and Aran, said the decision to give the school's support to Cry was reached unanimously.