THE memory of a Basingstoke teenager who died of complications caused by his diabetes was kept alive by his fellow pupils who held a special memorial event in his honour.

Year 10 and 11 students from Everest Community Academy paid tribute to Blake Cook last Thursday - which marked a year to the day since Blake Cook lost his life after suffering problems with his diabetes.

The 15-year-old had been off school for a few days before his death because of his diabetes, and he suffered a heart attack at his home in Popley.

An ambulance was called but paramedics were unable to save Blake, who died in Basingstoke hospital later the same day.

Pupils from Everest, in Oxford Way, Popley came together at a special assembly to remember the teenager, before forming a line outside for a minute's silence, facing a pear tree that was planted last year in Blake's memory.

The pear tree was donated to the school by Blake's father, and was chosen because it was his favourite fruit.

Students also released balloons into the sky.

They then held a memorial football match for Blake, who was a Manchester United fan, which raised money for Diabetes UK.

Basingstoke Gazette:

Caroline Hams, pastoral leader for Year 10 and 11 at Everest, said: "It was for them to feel that they are doing something. Blake was a Man United fan and loved football so for them to play football in his memory next to his tree, which overlooks the astroturf, they felt like he was watching them."

The match raised £128 for Diabetes UK.

The special day was organised by the students to remember their friend.

Mrs Hams said the memorial demonstrated "how devoted out students are to still continue to remember their friend."

She added: "It was a nice way to remember him."

An inquest into Blake's death was held at Basingstoke Magistrates' Court on Wednesday. Read the full report here.