Schoolboys will undertake an 18-mile bike ride in memory of a classmate who died in Oxford's Eastern Bypass tragedy.

Teenage friends of Marshall Haynes, 13, will get on their bikes and pedal across the city to raise money for a memorial garden at Peers School, Little- more.

The teenager was one of three friends killed in the May 28 crash, when the car they were travelling in veered across the central reservation into oncoming traffic.

The boys are hoping to help raise thousands of pounds for the memorial garden by cycling between Cowley and Kidlington on July 17.

Organiser Curtis Paddick, 13, one of Marshall's best friends, said: "I thought it was easy and simple, and not too technical, and quite a good way of making money.

"We are hoping to bike back but it depends how we feel.

"It was quite easy getting everyone involved as most of us lived round the corner from Marsh."

Marshall Haynes' cousin, 13-year-old Rhys Taylor, will also be taking part, and said: "I wanted to help Curtis out as it's in memory of Marshall. It's nothing like it used to be without him -- it's not loud enough.

"We want to raise as much as we can because it's not going to be cheap."

The group, which also includes James Brooks, 16, Chris Howells and Jordan Wood, both 12, have already raised more than £400 and cheques can be sent to Peers School, made payable to Peers School.

The seven boys will be supported by two parents on their trip which will end with free refreshments at Sainsbury's in Kidlington.

Money raised will help pay for benches, a granite rock and memorial plaque. The school plans to spend about £4,000 building the garden.

Curtis's mother Nicola Paddick said: "I'm incredibly proud because it's been a rough time for Curtis.

"He managed to speak in church at the funeral and is often round at Marshall's mum's house."

Marshall died along with friends Liam Hastings and Josh Bartlett, both 13. Howard Hillsdon, 21, of Yarnton, who was driving the other vehicle, also lost his life.

Survivors Conor Hunt, 12, and Aiden Wood, 13, are recovering at home, but Anton Dublin, 13, and Jake Proper, 13, remain at the John Radcliffe Hospital where they are said to be making good progress.

Driver Angela Dublin, 45, remains at the Great Western Hospital in Swindon in a stable condition.

As reported in the Oxford Mail, memorial benches are also planned for Liam Hastings and Mr Hillsdon.