WHEN Debbie Oakes' best friend died of leukaemia six years ago she never forgot her.

Debbie, from Atch Lench, left school, went to university and now has a top job in London, but the memory of her brave chum Tracy Sollis fighting for her life, always remained.

It was not surprising then when Debbie's company, Persona Management Consultants, was handing out big bonuses, that she contrived to channel more than £2,700 into the Tracy Sollis Leukaemia Trust.

Debbie said: "Every quarter, bonuses get shared out between the staff, with half going to a nominated charity.

"The money has always gone to London charities before, but after I told the bosses all about Tracy and the fund-raising that has gone on ever since in her memory, they were persuaded to let me have the cash this time."

Tracy's mum, Sue from Princess Road in Evesham, said: "I was totally unaware that Debbie had made a bid on our behalf and I am completely overwhelmed and thrilled by the amount.

"The girls both attended Prince Henry's High School. Debbie became a very close friend to Tracy at her time of illness and stuck by her throughout her battle which finally claimed her life."

The money has been donated to the Trust, which aims to support research into the disease.

Recently the Trust awarded £10,000 to Birmingham University, to fund what could be a major vaccine breakthrough.

Anyone who can help trustees raise more money to fund vital research into the disease is urged to contact Mrs Sollis on 01386 765728.