Family and former students of a deputy headteacher killed by meningitis are taking part in a marathon walk to help fund research into the deadly disease.

Kevin Leaver, of Burley-in Wharfedale, was struck down by the bug in January this year after returning home from school complaining of flu-like symptoms.

The 50-year-old, who taught at St Mary's Catholic Comprehensive, Menston, for 28 years, tragically lost his fight for life five hours after being admitted to hospital.

Since his death, pupils at St Mary's have been raising money for the Spencer Dayman Meningitis Charity.

And this week 14 sixth formers will join Mr Leaver's 16-year-old daughter Laura and widow Lesley, for a 22-mile sponsored walk between Ripon and Otley.

As well as raising money to help research into a vaccine, the Leaver family want to draw attention to the fact that it is not only children and teenagers who can die from the devastating illness.

Mrs Leaver said: "It's still very painful - I still can't quite believe Kevin has gone.

"The Spencer Dayman Charity has been so supportive and has put us in touch with people who've gone through similar experiences.

"You realise you're not alone and that it's not as uncommon in older people as you might think. We want to raise awareness of the facts and try and stop it happening to anyone else."

The walk is a national event which covers the length of the country - starting at Morpeth in Northumberland and passing through towns and villages whose first letters spell out 'Meningococcal B'.

Sixth form students Amy Prus and Sarah Harris have also designed Christmas cards in memory of Mr Leaver which will be made available from the school and sold by the Bristol-based charity.

Diane Browdowska, a mini-bus driver for St Mary's who is taking part in the walk, said: "Kevin was a role model for staff and pupils alike."

l The 463-mile walk reaches Ripon Market Place at 8.30am on Thursday, October 5 and fundraisers carrying collecting buckets expect to arrive in Manor Square, Otley, between 4pm and 5pm. Donations can also be made via the school on (01943) 883000 or Spencer Dayman Charity on (0117) 9020072.