CHARITABLE children have supported the bereaved son of TV presenter Simon Thomas by fundraising for a blood cancer charity.

Gemma Thomas died of acute myeloid leukaemia in November, three days after going into hospital, leaving behind eight-year-old Ethan.

Kirstyn Lowther and Jemima West, from Caversham Primary School, decided to take on a triathlon and have raised more than £1,300 through sponsorship to help other children going through similar tragedies.

The former Blue Peter presenter said his wife's health deteriorated unexpectedly and he did not get to say his final goodbyes to her as a result.

Sarah Lowther, Kirstyn's mother and a friend of the Thomas family, said: "The impact that Gemma had on so many people in her life was huge and across so many areas, through her work with the church, charity and the Reading community.

"Gemma left behind not only her husband Simon but also their son, Ethan, who is only a few weeks younger than Kirstyn.

"The shock and grief for her family has been immeasurable. Kirstyn has witnessed first-hand the various emotions associated with losing a close family friend and the impact on Gemma's family and friends, and was moved to do something to help."

The two special girls completed a 750m swim, 5k run and cycled 20km as part of the challenge.

She added: "Jemima and Kirstyn have huge hearts and a desire to help. This was a really difficult challenge for them both and they did phenomenally well considering they are only eight and nine years old.

"They captured the hearts of many people by completing this challenge, to try and make sure other people don't suffer in the same way as the Thomas' family."

Thomas announced the death of 40-year-old Gemma on social media and has campaigned to raise funds for Maggie’s Centres to help other families affected by cancer.

Ethan was recently given the opportunity to walk out with the England football team ahead of their friendly against Italy.

Click here to donate to the online fundraising page.