A TEENAGER who raised thousands of pounds for charity while battling a brain tumour has died.
Billy Belderson, 15, who took part in the Marsden March in March to raise funds for the hospital treating him died on April 4.
The Glyn student raised more than £1,460 following the 14-mile walk from the Royal Marsden Hospital in Chelsea to the Royal Marsden Hospital in Sutton, with all funds going to the Royal Marsden Cancer Charity.
He also raised more than £1,800 in 2011 and more than £3,500 2012 after taking part in same event.
Billy's brain tumour was diagnosed in October 2010 after he collapsed while playing football.
He had 95 per cent of the tumour taken out at St George's Hospital and was then placed under the specialised care of The Royal Marsden Cancer Hospital at Sutton. He then underwent another operation to remove a second tumour in January 2012.
In a letter governors dated May 1, executive head teacher Jon Chaloner said: "As you are aware one of our Year 10 students, Billy Belderson, sadly passed away during the Easter holidays and I know it was with heavy hearts that some of our students returned to school on April 15 knowing that Billy would not be joining them.
"Last week many of Billy's friends from Glyn as well as members of staff, Mr Mayhew and I attended his funeral at North East Surrey Crematorium.
"The service was attended by several hundred people and I commend all the students who were present for their exceptional behaviour.
"Several people commented to me that the students were a credit to the school and to the friend they have lost."
He continued: "It is our intention to hold a celebration of Billy's life at a later date and, in collaboration with his family, fund an appropriate memorial so that his time at Glyn will be remembered."
Messages have been posted on social media websites in tribute of Billy.
One Twitter user, @NickWillss posted April 5: "RIP Billy Belderson, no one can explain how much you will be missed."
Another Twitter user, @OliWells19, posted on April 25: "Yesterday was an absolutely amazing tribute to a wonderful person, R.I.P Billy Belderson, you will be missed."
The Belderson family has advised that any donations in Billy's memory should be sent to the Royal Marsden Hospital. Donations can be sent by cheque, made payable to 'The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity' and sent directly to:
The Fundraising Department
Royal Marsden Hospital
Downs Road
Sutton
Surrey SM2 5PT
Donations can also be made by telephone (020 8661 3391) using a debit/credit card or on line at www.royalmarsden.org.
A fundraising page has also been set up in Billy's memory. Click here to make a donation to the Royal Marsden Cancer Charity
