Sporting challenge in memory of motocross loving teenager

The teenagers from Stockton Riverside College (SRC) Bede Sixth Form were inspired to support the Great North Air Ambulance Service (GNAAS) by their sport and public services lecturer, Mike Sadler, who lost his son Michael in tragic circumstances.

The 15-year-old motocross enthusiast suffered a brain haemorrhage while practising the sport that he loved on South Gare, Redcar, in June last year.

Despite the efforts of paramedics there was nothing that could be done to save the teenager.

Mr Sadler, from Yarm, was touched when the students decided to support the GNAAS in memory of his son.

He said: "The Great North Air Ambulance team were first on the scene. They are the ones that get people to hospital."

BTEC Extended Diploma Level 3 student, Emily Good, 18, of Eaglescliffe, said: "We wanted to do something in memory of Michael and to also show our support for Mike."

Starting the 24-hour challenge at 9am, the squad of about 40 students took part in a host of activities at the SRC Sports Centre in Billingham, each lasting about 50 minutes, followed by a ten minute break.

Games included netball, handball, hockey, table tennis, rugby and futsal.

Speaking at the halfway point, Emily said: "We are starting to feel it now but everyone goes through tired phases at different times so we are supporting each other. Knowing that you are doing it for such an important reason keeps you going."

Keen to play his part, Mr Sadler got involved on the day, clocking up 32 miles - his son's race number - by cycling 22 miles to and from work plus an additional ten miles on the rowing machine.

Praising the students' enthusiasm and dedication on the day, he said: "The 24 hour sport is something the students have done before and it has always been a cracking event.

"It is a long and tiring day going 24 hours and during that time they go through lots of emotions but it's always amazing to see and hear the cheers coming from the sports hall."