NEARLY £1,700 has been collected in memory of Pinvin teenager Claire Stones, who collapsed and died while on a night out with friends.

The money will be given to Ward 12 of Birmingham Hospital's heart unit, where Claire received treatment throughout her life for a heart defect.

Claire had been enjoying a night out with friends in Worcester when tragedy struck as she stood up to dance to her favourite song.

Most of the money collected in her memory was given by the hundreds of mourners who filled Pershore Abbey last month to pay tribute to the 17-year-old, who was described during the service as an "angel" and a "remarkable character".

About £200 was raised by some of Claire's many friends from Pershore High School, who organised a rounders match to raise donations. A memorial garden is also planned at the school as a lasting tribute to the popular teenager who was studying for her A-levels and looking forward to a career working with children.

Head teacher Clive Corbett said Claire's death had united the entire school in grief. "She will always be remembered as a wonderfully caring person who was always full of fun."

Her mother, Rose, said she had been touched by the support given to her and her husband Pete and son Christopher since the tragedy at the end of April.

"We were sent more than 250 cards and the house was filled with flowers.

"I would like to thank everyone who has donated money. I hope we will have enough to buy a machine for the ward in Claire's memory."

An inquest has been opened and adjourned to a date yet to be fixed by Worcestershire coroner Victor Round.