The favourite park of a Highgate schoolgirl who died of cancer nearly four years ago glowed pink for a day at a charity picnic to raise thousands of pounds for disadvantaged youngsters in her memory.

Hundreds, including actor Christopher Eccleston, poured into Waterlow Park on Saturday for Pinknic in the Park to celebrate the life of 17-year-old Alexandra Wylie, pictured right.

The Channing schoolgirl – known as Allie to her friends – died in 2010 from an incurable form of cancer, but her passion for life inspired her mother to set up the Alexandra Wylie Tower Foundation (AWTF) in her name to help children living in poverty in north London.

Volunteers

Highgate actresses Juliet Stevenson and Michelle Collins joined former Doctor Who star Mr Eccleston and a team of volunteers made up of Allie’s friends and family to run the third annual Pinknic, which this year raised nearly £12,000.

Allie’s mum, Lindsey Wylie, 55, of Gladsmuir Road, Highgate, said: “That park was very special to Alexandra. We used to walk there everyday, and it’s in the heart of the community that supports us.

“The one thing I’ve learnt from Alexandra’s death is how wonderful people are. They give time, money and support and through all of that this wonderful event was created.”

And the charity’s celebrity supporters weren’t afraid to get stuck in as Mr Eccleston judged the fête’s popular Bake Off competition, while Ms Stevenson and Ms Collins drew a raffle.

Beauty therapists from Allie’s Sanctuary, a spa and salon which supports the work of the foundation, were on hand to provide relaxing massages and nail painting.

An inflatable adult assault course was also on offer for the park’s more adventurous visitors.

Meanwhile, live music from Channing School choir, Chacapella and former X Factor contestant, Lydia Lucy, saw people dancing throughout the afternoon.

All proceeds from the picnic will go towards funding food parcels and cooking lessons for children at the Camden branch of Kids Company, a charity for vulnerable young people.

Lindsey added: “We are very keen to bring healthy, nutritious meals back into children’s homes and to provide as much support as we can for families who are really struggling.”