A FORMER chorister is to undertake a sponsored walk to help other children attend his old school.

James Petherick, a former chorister at Durham Cathedral, is to walk the 62-mile St Cuthbert’s Way from Melrose to Holy Island to raise money for chorister bursaries.

The 15-year-old from Washington, Wearside, will undertake the challenge in late August with his mother, Judith.

His father David and sister Sarah, who is a current chorister, will be the support team.

James said: “Being a chorister really changed my life and gave me so many opportunities; not just being in one of the best choirs in the world but also access to hundreds of talented people who I can go to for advice about music and my future.

“When I left, I just felt that more people should be able to have those opportunities so I decided I would try to raise some money for the fund in the hope that it will help other children have the chances I did.”

The Very Reverend Michael Sadgrove, the Dean of Durham, said: “It’s wonderful to see that James has not only enjoyed his time here with us at the Cathedral but that it has inspired him to think about other children and their opportunities in life.

“We are immensely grateful to the whole Petherick family for raising money for chorister bursaries and wish them every success in their walk along the St Cuthbert’s Way.”

To sponsor James, visit justgiving.com/james-petherick