STUDENTS took on a coastal challenge in memory of their school friend Will Mackaness.

Natasha Mann and Helena Pizzie walked from Lulworth Cove to Weymouth Pavilion and kayaked back to Preston ahead of what would have been Will’s 18th birthday today.

The two students wanted to remind Will’s mum Pam Govier that he is still very much in their thoughts two years after he died from a brain tumour.

Natasha and Helena are on their way to raising £1,000 for the Will Mackaness Trust – which helps youngsters get involved in watersports.

Natasha, 20, of Buddleia Close, Weymouth, said: “I’ve wanted to do something for a long time to just remind her that Will’s not forgotten.

“We decided to do something close to the beach as Will loved the beach and the water. We wanted to do something challenging and it ended up being quite hard.”

The pair attended the Wey Valley School and Sports College in Weymouth with Will.

They took part in the school musical Les Miserables together and enjoyed spending time together at the beach.

Helena, 20, said: “Will was an inspiration and it was a good chance to think of our memories of him.”

The challenge was completed in five hours and 50 minutes – an hour ahead of the estimated time.

Helena added: “I really enjoyed it but the kayaking was the hardest bit for me.”

Will’s mum Pam said the girls’ gesture made ‘a real difference’ ahead of his birthday.

She said: “It’s lovely to know that he’s still in people’s hearts and minds.

“It’s fantastic. It has touched me and it’s helped me to know that people are thinking of him.”

Pam said Will’s birthday will be a day to remember happy memories.

She said: “We had 16 years of very happy memories. He was a very caring boy and very thoughtful.

“As with all bad things something positive has to got to come.

“And when the first windsurfing sessions came up I thought how none of that would have happened if it had not been for Will.”

Pam went to Lulworth to see the girls off on their 13-mile walk and met them back in Weymouth.

She said: “They did a fantastic job and did it so quickly. It’s a long walk and they did really well.”