FRIENDS and relatives of a 14-year-old who died of heart problems are hoping to raise at least £8,000 for the hospice that cared for her.

Esther Brian died at the Donna Louise Children's Hospice on September 1.

The Dresden youngster, who loved singing and dancing, was diagnosed with leukaemia when she was aged two, and the treatment she received for it gave her a heart condition.

Her family say her death has been hard to accept, but the support of staff at the Treetops hospice has helped them through.

Now they want to give something back by holding a 12-hour karting marathon.

Esther's mother, 42-year-old shop assistant Andrea, of Belgrave Road, said: "We were devastated when she was diagnosed with severe heart failure, but Treetops welcomed us with open arms. They didn't just care for Esther; they cared for my husband and I as well. I couldn't have given her the same care that they did and she loved it there."

The event at Fast Lane Karting, in Fenton, will start at midnight on Friday, November 28, and run until Saturday lunchtime.

Organiser Joshua Brian, Esther's cousin hopes to get 10 teams taking part. Each team will have a single kart and will be allowed 10 drivers. Joshua, a 22-year-old E.ON employee, of Watchfield Close, Meir, said: "We've asked everyone to try and raise £50 in sponsorship and E.ON has said it will match the amount raised by any of my colleagues."

Joshua's work colleague Tim Harborow is helping to organise the fund-raiser. Entries cost £35 per driver and must be received by November 21. All drivers need to be aged 14 or over.

The winning team will receive champagne and a plaque. Runners-up will also receive a plaque and every team will get a certificate.

Registration forms are available from Tim by calling 07717 651574.