Robert Pilkington, 10, decided to support Jessica's Fund because he was touched after hearing of the stabbed teenager's progress at the Royal Manchester Children's Hospital, Pendlebury.

The St Laurence's Primary School pupil organised the snooker marathon at his home on Balmoral Road, Chorley, where he played dad Mark, 50.

He was cheered on by sisters Lucy and Charlotte, aged 16 and 19, and was also supported by mum Jane and friends.

His dad Mark said: "Robert came up with the idea to do a snooker marathon because he was looking for a task for his endurance badge for the Scouts.

"He is very keen on playing snooker and pool and wanted to raise money for Jessica's Fund in the process.

"We live near the park and our family was very touched by Jessica's story and the progress she is making.

"I think it's fantastic that the people of Chorley are coming forward and doing their bit to support Jessica because she and her family need all the support they can get.

"My daughters went to her school (at Parklands) and we have often walked along the path were the stabbing happened - it hits home and I'm very proud of Robert for raising the money."

YOUNGSTERS at a playgroup in Astley Village did their bit for Jessica Knight with a special event on Friday.

All the children at Astley Village Playgroup, which is just a few yards from where the teenager was stabbed, all wore something red and had their faces painted red as well.

In return the parents made a donation to Jessica's Fund, which helped raise around £30.

Linda Mallalieu, at the playgroup, said: "The children were aware of something going on (in the aftermath of Jessica's stabbing) but were too young to be told anything about it.

"The staff and parents were all shocked and wanted to do something to help."

A CHORLEY hairdressers has pledged to raise money.

Desire Hairdressers, in Collingwood Road, is holding a raffle and a collection for the stricken teenager.

Ashlea Akrigg, who works at the salon, said: "We're all local and we decided we had to do something. Some of the clients know Jessica and when we saw the Guardian we had to act.

"One of my colleagues, Karen Thompson, went to Parklands High School but it's the fact that the stabbing happened so close to home that shocked everybody."
The salon will be holding a raffle for a £20 cut and blow dry as well as a collection.
n The Community Church, in Halliwell Street, Chorley, sent a cheque for £75 to Jessica's Fund.

Pastor David Stoner, said: "It's a donation from the church. It's something that touched everyone in the community and it's our way of responding in a practical way and can help make some type of difference."