A TEENAGER who lost her father to illness last year is paying tribute to his love of the countryside by walking the 104-mile long Cotswold Way.

Aisling Duggan, a pupil at the Cotswold School in Bourton, came up with the idea a few months ago after the death of her father, Paul.

After talking to head teacher Will Morgan, she came up with the idea of creating something positive out of the tragic loss of a loved one.

The 15-year-old, of Fossebridge, and her sisters lost their father towards the end of last year after he was diagnosed with a brain tumour.

But she returned to school and it was during a conversation with Mr Morgan, that she decided whatever she attempted had to be about her father.

“When I mentioned my dad, a Londoner, had moved to the Cotswolds because of his love of the countryside, Mr Morgan suggested I walk the 104- mile long Cotswold Way, which spans from Chipping Campden to Bath,” she said.

Aisling will be taking on the challenge between August 25 and 31 and plans to donate the money her school. She said: “By doing this, I hope to raise money for a fund which will be used to pay for school trips for students if they need it.”

She said raising money for the school is a cause that would have been close to her father’s heart.

“I believe it’s so important that everyone has the chanceto be educated on culture, history and everything else that school trips offer,” she said.

Her mother Fiona said it was a very brave decision for her daughter to take part in the walk.

“I’m very proud of her, and I know her dad would be too.”

Mr Morgan said: “She is an inspiration, not just to her peers, but to us all.”

Anyone who would like to sponsor Aisling can donate via The Cotswold School’s Finance Office, The Avenue, Bourtonon- the-Water, Gloucestershire GL54 2BD marking the contribution: “Aisling’s Walk” or call 01451 820554, option #3.