THE parents of a schoolboy who tragically died during a game of football have praised his friends for raising money for the charity that tried to save his life.

James Cook was enjoying a kickabout with his friends before he became unwell and collapsed on the evening of May 24, 2017.

The Northern Echo: LOVED: James Cook, 12, who tragically died after he collapsed during a kickabout with his friends in May last year

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LOVED: James Cook, 12, who tragically died after he collapsed during a kickabout with his friends in May last year

The 12-year-old, who was a student of St John’s Catholic School in Bishop Auckland, was airlifted to the James Cook University Hospital by the Great North Ambulance Service (GNAAS) but sadly died.

James’ friends and school have since worked to raise as much money as they can for the GNAAS and this week handed over a cheque for more than £2,000.

Parents Louise and Ian Cook have praised the children’s efforts describing them as amazing.

Mrs Cook said: “We have known these boys for years, some of them were there when James collapsed, and they are just utterly amazing.

“James was a very popular boy and his light does shine on. It’s been very emotional coming here and listening to the work that the Great North Air Ambulance does.

“Our daughter, Rebecca, is a Sixth Form student here and for her to come here every day is amazing, she is an inspiration.”

Staff at St John’s have organised bike rides and bake sales to raise the funds, and are already planning more events.

James’ tutor, Steph Robinson, said: “When James passed away it was difficult for the whole school, he was a lovely, polite boy who was so inquisitive.

“13 of James’ friends and I took part in a 40-mile bike ride which raised a chunk of the funds, the whole school has been so supportive as have James’ parents and all of the staff.

“I thought raising money for the GNAAS would help our students to grieve and we are delighted to be able to hand over a cheque in James’ memory that will help the charity continue their work. We hope to donate even more in James’ memory next year.”

Headteacher Lisa Byron said: “We have been truly amazed by the generosity and the thoughtfulness of our students.

“James was an extremely popular boy in the year and in the school and it’s a truly remarkable effort that the year nine pupils have put in.”