THE mother of a student who tragically drowned after a night out drinking is to take part in a marathon to raise money for water safety charities.

Fine arts student Megan Roberts died in January last year after entering the Ouse in the centre of York following night out in the city with friends. She was just 20.

Now her mother, Jackie, will be part of a team taking part in next Sunday’s (October 11) Plusnet Yorkshire Marathon in York under the title Miles for Megan.

She will be raising money for the Royal Life Saving Society – of which she is now an ambassador – and the York Rescue Boat, which was set up after the death of Megan and others

“We have got two teams running made up of family, friends and Wetherby High School students,” said Jackie.

“One of Megan’s friends, Racheal Storey, is going to run the whole marathon after the first relay leg. We have had amazing support already and although we are a little nervous we are really inspired about taking part.

“Since Megan’s death, I have been working closely with the RLSS UK to help raise awareness of the dangers of open water, particularly when under the influence of alcohol. RLSS UK funds raised by us will be used primarily to support the national campaign Don’t Drink and Drown.

“Both York universities are running the campaign in December and January as this is a particularly dangerous time.”

RLSS UK Chief Executive, Di Steer, said: “It is great that Jackie is taking part in the Yorkshire Marathon to raise funds for the RLSS UK and York Rescue Boat. We wish her and her team mates the best of luck.”

To support the Miles for Megan team, go to justgiving.com/MilesforMegan or text MMEG93 to 70070 including an amount between £1 and £10.