THE family of a Hampshire schoolgirl who died suddenly have set up a charity to fulfil her dreams through helping others.

Olympic hopeful Allegra Whittome, 16, died in February after falling ill and pulling out of a sport competition just hours before it was due to start.

A post mortem revealed she died of natural causes.

The popular teenager, who studied at St Swithun’s, Winchester, was known for competing in a variety of sports, including horse-riding, swimming, athletics and lacrosse, and aimed to represent Team GB in the Olympics.

Her parents, Lucy and Ashley Whittome, of Weild near Alresford, have now set up ‘Allegra’s Ambition’ in the hope of bringing their daughter’s dreams to life by supporting other young people.

Funds raised will be donated to charities that help youngsters develop positive behaviour through sport, outdoor activities and encouraging values that will enable them to be happier.

Friends, family and her former school community are targeting their first big fundraiser next month when 500 people will take part in the New Forest Marathon in her memory.

The race, on September 13, will be the first memorial event for Allegra and is in aid of the new charity, with 10 per cent going to the marathon’s community fund.

The Whittome family said: “Allegra loved sport and nature – she was always outside and on the go. She was an exceptionally motivated person who radiated happiness and was a joy to be with.

“For us, it’s a tragedy that she will never fulfil her many ambitions and dreams. We hope that through her charity, we can help turn some of those dreams into reality for others.”

The event is split into four scenic races through the forest, with full and half marathons, 10 or five kilometre routes and the newly-named Allegra Whittome Woodland Walk for non-runners.

Training has already started and Hayley Gaj, a PE teacher at St Swithun’s, is helping to organise the run and family walk.

She said: “This day will enable everyone to come together and remember Allegra by participating in a fun, sporting activity.

“As she was passionate about sport, being part of a team and enjoying the outside with her animals, we feel this is a fitting way to remember her.”

Many of the participants will wear pink laces, sold on behalf of Allegra’s Ambition. Hundreds of pounds have already been raised at the school’s sports day.

To find out more, donate or sign up for the marathon, visit AllegrasAmbition.org.uk and newforestmarathon.co.uk.