A CHARITY which was launched in memory of a 21-year-old who died suddenly from a hidden heart defect is inviting people to tee off in aid of the organisation.

The James Nicholas Foundation was launched by the family of the former Carmel College student who died days before his 22nd birthday in October 2012 due to an undetected heart condition.

James left behind dad Kevin, mum Lesley and sisters Caitlin and Courtney.

Since the tragedy, the family has given its support for Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY), an organisation which aims to reduce the frequency of young sudden cardiac death and promotes heart screening programmes.

They were named Champion Fundraiser at last year's Pride of St Helens awards in recognition of their efforts.

Fundraisers have included a bike ride along the Leeds Liverpool canal, taking on the Great North Run and the St Helens 10k and recently the foundation raised £8,000 with help from the town centre store Marks and Spencers which held a bag pack and charity cycling events.

The charity held heart screenings at Carmel College last year and at Langtree Park last November, where around 200 people were tested which is hoped will become an annual event in the town.

And on Tuesday, August 23 a charity golf tournament will be held at the Sherdley Park course. The four-man team event will include 'closest to the pin' competitions on some Par 3s and 'longest drive' contests on longer holes.

"I just don't want people to go through what I did," said James' dad Kevin, 50.

"It is more awareness that will keep this going because there's not many people that do heart screenings. My aim is trying to get them not just in St Helens. We want to keep one at Saints every year and I want to move around as well.

"I want to get out there so when people see the name 'James Nicholas' they know what it is."

'The James Nicholas Golf Event is £100 per team to enter. All money raised will be used to fund ECG testing.

Please contact Matt, to enter on 07706527998 or email matthew@promotional-materials.co.uk