A charity set up in memory of a popular head teacher has had a boost ahead of its biggest fundraiser of the year.

Organisers of the Paul Trigwell Island Run (PTIR) are hoping 2014 will be the year they reach their target of £100,000.

Money collected in the name of the former St George’s Middle School teacher, who died in 2006, is to help Sheppey children.

On Sunday, Mr Trigwell’s son, Andrew, took part in the Brighton Marathon in aid of the cause.

Andrew Trigwell suffered a heart attack in 2010, caused by a blood disorder that led to blockages forming in one of his arteries.

The 32-year-old, who teaches history at Sittingbourne Community College, completed the 26-mile race in four hours 55 minutes and has raised more than £1,000.

‘Really, really proud’

His mum Fiona said: “Andrew has done the London Marathon before and always does the 10 miles in the PTIR.

“He was very fit and had the medical professionals baffled when he had the heart attack.

“Completing the marathon was a bit of a milestone for him. We are really, really proud.”

On Saturday, 10-year-old Mason Nolker took part in the 2k Dirty Dozen obstacle course at the Hop Farm in Paddock Wood.

The youngster is a St George’s primary pupil. Although he wasn’t taught by Mr Trigwell, his sister Holly, now 21, was, so he wanted to support the fund.

He has raised just over £200.

His mum Bev, from Sheerness, said: “Paul had such a positive impact on our family.

“He was an amazing man and we, as a family, are very proud and lucky to have known him.”

There’s still time to sign up to the PTIR – which will take place on Sunday, May 11. It is the eighth time the challenge will have been held, and it’s hoped many people will wear cartoon-inspired fancy dress.

As usual, there will be a two-mile run, a 10-mile run, a 10-mile walk and a 10-mile relay.

For more information or to sign up, search Paul Trigwell Island Run on Facebook or visit www.ptir.org.uk