AROUND 300 runners turned out to race in memory of a teenager who died from leukaemia.

The Ben Johnson Forget Me Not Foundation organised a 12-mile run at Gravesend Rugby Club in Milton Road to raise money for Leukaemia Research.

Joe Pasquale, the charity’s patron, started the event which was held to remember 17-year-old Ben Johnson, who died in November 2007.

Ben’s parents Neil and Donna are hopeful the total amount raised reaches the £40,000 mark.

Mr Johnson, aged 51, of Cross Lane East, Gravesend, said: “It was a stunning turn out and a very emotional day.

“It made us feel very good that people decided to come out in memory of Ben.”