A CHATBURN woman is set to hit the roads of Manchester in memory of her best friend who died suddenly of meningitis.

Dannielle Catterall, 17, from Blackburn died in 2009 when she returned home from Blackburn College suffering from a migraine.

Mum Toni Burford became more concerned when she vomited and started to become unresponsive, and dialled 999.

When paramedics arrived they detected a small red mark on her stomach and took her to hospital, by which time the rash had covered her body.

Just hours after being diagnosed with meningitis B, she had died.

Now her best friend, Olivia Clarkson, 21, is aiming to raise £1,500 for charity Meningitis Now having already reached her original target of £1,000.

The Downham Road resident met Dannielle in 2009 while they were both studying at Blackburn College and quickly became close friends.

Olivia, who is studying criminology at Blackburn College University Centre said: “It was devastating to lose Dannielle.

“She was so bubbly and was always smiling and laughing.

“It’s amazing that I’ve already raised so much money for the charity.

“I miss her all the time and the feeling of loss has never left me.

“It’s really important to raise awareness of meningitis because it doesn’t get as much attention or coverage as other illnesses.”

Dannielle’s mum, Toni, 39, said: “Olivia was a very good friend to Dannielle.

“I’m going to cheer her on the day.

“It’s nice to know that Dannielle’s memory is still living on even though she is no longer with us.”

For more information or to sponsor Olivia, who will run the Manchester 10k on May 18, visit http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/OliviaClarkson