Lingfield mum runs in memory of daughter

A MOTHER who tragically lost her teenage daughter to a deadly disease

has joined forces with friends to honour her memory.

Jenny Stevens, of Newplace Gardens, Lingfield, lost her 16-year-old daughter Becky, in 2003.

Becky died of meningococcal septicaemia, a deadly blood poisoning from of meningitis which attacks the immune system.

Mrs Stevens and 12 friends and family members took part in the Hyde Park 5k run, to raise money for the Meningitis Research Foundation.

This is something she has done every year since 2003.

Remembering her daughter's death, Mrs Stevens, 52, said: "It all happened within a period of around 12 hours really.

"It was all very quick and very much a shock. It was awful."

The mother, who also has two other daughters, now regularly raises money for the Meningitis Research Foundation, including regular participation in the 5k run in central London.

Mrs Stevens said: "Since 2003 I have done the 5km race which takes part in Hyde Park, but it is not just me who does it.

"Becky's old school friends all take part and it is something we use to refresh our memories.

"It's quite nice to meet up and talk about all our different memories of Becky."

Becky was a Lingfield Notre Dame pupil and was due to sit her GCSE's when the disease struck.

Mrs Stevens said: "She was really outgoing, and very into sports.

"She was popular and had many friends, which is clear because her friends have all done the race every year, even now when they are off doing their own thing."

This year's 5k race took place on September 7, where Mrs Stevens led a team of 13 intrepid runners.

The team, which included Mrs Stevens two daughters, Tash 19, and Vanessa, 23, braved weather changes and slippery surfaces to finish the run.

Mrs Stevens added: "Becky's friends are now all around 21 years old and there is one girl who came all the way from Sheffield where she is studying at university.

"It's nice that we all get to catch up.

"The race wasn't too difficult, we are used to it now."

Claire Johnson, from the Meningitis Research Foundation, said: "Thanks to Jenny and her team for running a great race and raising a fantastic amount of money for the foundation.

"The day was a great success and everyone had a good race despite the weather.