STAFF and pupils from a Bury high school are set to go on the run in memory of Joe Geeling.

Retired police officer Andy O'Sullivan has organised the Joe Geeling Memorial 5k Road Race to take place on Sunday, January 21.

St Gabriel's RC High School teachers and children are expected to take part along with Tom Geeling, Joe's father.

A trust fund set up in memory of the youngster, who suffered from cystic fibrosis, has already raised more than £20,000 for Booth Hall Children's Hospital, the Cystic Fibrosis Trust and local mountain rescue teams.

Now, fundraisers from throughout the borough are being invited to take part in the memorial road race organised by Mr O'Sullivan, Andems Runners and Rochdale Harriers.

Mr O'Sullivan said: "When I heard what happened to Joe, like all right-minded people, I was horrified.

"In December I was in telephone contact with Tom Geeling and he was pleased to have an event in Joe's memory. Lots of police officers and personnel are going to participate along with many runners from the Bury and Radcliffe area who have already pledged their support."

He added: "The most senior officer running is Detective Superintendent Martin Bottomley who led the murder investigation, and I understand Joe's dad, Tom, also intends to compete."

The 5k road race starts at 11.15am from the Falcon Inn, Church Street, Littleborough.

Free refreshments and soft drinks will be available on the day. Advanced entry fees are £3 for club runners and £5 to unattached runners with £1 extra payable on registration on the day of the event.

Cheques should be made payable to JGMR Andems Runners and forwarded to Andy O'Sullivan MBE at 40 Crowshaw Drive, Rochdale, OL12 OSR. For sponsorship forms or for more information telephone 01706 750620.