THE family of a 21-year-old who died from a hidden heart defect are to bring screenings back to Saints' stadium to continue their mission.

The James Nicholas Foundation was launched by the family of the former De La Salle and Carmel student who died days before his 22nd birthday in October 2012.

James, who was from Dentons Green, left behind parents Kevin and Lesley and younger sisters Courtney and Caitlin.

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 have already held six heart screening sessions at locations including Carmel College, Saints and Everton FC.

So far 606 people have been tested at the sessions organised by the charity, with 29 having been referred.

The foundation, which does not charge for screenings, has raised £70,000 since 2013 and is hoping to receive help from the Tesco Bags of Help scheme later in the autumn.

Screenings will take place at Saints on Saturday, November 18 and at Thatto Heath Crusaders on Sunday 19.

Dad Kevin Nicholas has said he wants the screenings to help prevent others going through the same ordeal his family has.

"There's not that many places that actually do it in the north west, I think we're the only ones," said Kevin, 51.

"I always said I'm going to do heart screenings at St Helens.

"If anyone would like to support the charity we've had James' sister Caitlin, Rebecca Crellin, who James used to work with and her friend Jack taking part in an obstacle course."

Kevin added that the screenings will help keep the memory of James, who was the great-great nephew of Saints legend Alf Ellaby, alive.

"James was just having a party like a normal 21-year-old while his parents were away and he collapsed," added Kevin.

"I want to keep it going, it helps us cope with what happened and it keeps my son's name going so his death means something."

See the James Nicholas Foundation on Facebook.