More than £1,000 has already been pledged to an appeal launched last Friday, for the children of Maggie Doel and Sally Jamieson.

Alex Johnson, chairman of the organisers of the Wycombe Half Marathon, has made the appeal the marathon's chosen charity.

He said: "We will do whatever we can to help and it is such a good local cause."

Mr Johnson said they are encouraging people who are running for charity but have not yet nominated one to agree to be sponsored on behalf of the appeal instead.

Annie Shepperd, of High Wycombe, who recently won Stars in their Eyes, performing as a member of The Seekers, has offered to give a concert to help raise funds.

Donations made payable to 'Doel and Jamieson Fund, Ref MNE' should be sent to: James Clements, Bucks Free Press, Gomm Road, High Wycombe, HP13 7DW.

A form for those who wish to run the half marathon for the appeal can be found on page 19 of this week's paper. You can register for the event on the day or in advance at Wycombe District Council offices in Queen Victoria Road.