A new charity was launched yesterday in memory of a popular Norfolk teacher who tragically died on his honeymoon.

The Luke Day Fund was set up in memory of the Costessey High teacher who had a zest for life and adventure.

The fund was launched at Ormiston Victory Academy, formerly Costessey High, where more than 30 students took part in a walk to raise money, starting from the new IT block named after him.

Luke died while on his honeymoon in Egypt with his wife, Sophie. The charity aims to help under-18s to access outdoor, cultural and musical opportunities they would otherwise not be able to participate in.

Sophie said: 'It's totally fitting that the fund is being launched here.

'Luke believed that education is a voyage of discovery and that there is a lot to be learned through new experiences. That's very much the ethos of the school and the staff and pupils have already been supportive through a variety of events and fundraising initiatives to kick-start the fund.

'What we really want to do through this fund is make sure that Norfolk students don't have to miss out on opportunities for financial reasons if they could really benefit from them.'

She added: 'The fund characterises him – life is fun, life is about doing good things. It is outstanding how much money has been raised out of good will and energy. I hope we can pay it back to people across Norfolk.'

Grants of up to �500 will be available to help students who would miss out on activities due to financial restrictions at home, or to help enable trips for several students such as exchange programmes or expeditions.

Schools will be able to apply for funds on behalf of their students.

Pupil Laura Brown, 14, who completed the walk in a black and white striped t-shirt and onions around her neck in memory of her French teacher, said: 'It was a really positive atmosphere.

'Mr Day was my teacher in year six. He made school more enjoyable and he played the guitar to make it easier to learn.'

Laura said Mr Day would teach songs to his classes.

Hannah Beavis, 17, said: 'Luke Day was a funny, generous and inspiring teacher. He was always telling students stories about his life and teaching experiences. He encouraged all students to push themselves to get the best out of life.'

Tom Mitchell, 18, said: 'We are doing this to celebrate how far we have come in the past year. I cycled with a friend from John O'Groats to Lands End and Sophie joined in the last 200 miles. It was quite emotional.

'What can I say about Luke, what a great guy, what an inspiration.'

To donate to the fund visit http://localgiving.com/charity/norfolkcommunityfoundation/project/the-luke-day-adventure-fund

*Are you planning a memorial event? Contact reporter Lucy Wright on 01603 772495 or email lucy.wright@archant.co.uk