Two teenagers who left the town to study history at university haven’t forgotten their roots.

Daniel Pumfrett and Marcus Underdown have organised a sponsored bike ride in recognition of the work of Borden Grammar School’s former head teacher Harold Vafeas who is currently fighting cancer.

The 19-year-old former students will set off on the 61-mile route from the Cancer Research headquarters in St John Street, London, on September 4 with their journey ending at the school in Avenue of Remembrance, Sittingbourne.

They hope to raise £1,000 for the charity in honour of Mr Vafeas who was forced to retire from his post in July due to ill health.

The 58-year-old was diagnosed with the disease last summer. Shortly afterwards he began a sixth-month course of chemotherapy, returning to school as and when he was well enough.

It was hoped he would resume the role full-time this September, but he decided to leave so he can focus on his health.

He had been at the helm since September 2004.

Before his arrival he was deputy head at Dane Court Grammar School in Broadstairs for 12 years.

Prior to that he was head of sixth form at the town’s Highsted Grammar School.

He taught both of the young men A-level history.

As a result Daniel, of Walsby Drive, Kemsley, is now studying the subject at Norwich university while Marcus, of Sapphire Close, Sonora Fields, is working towards a degree in the same subject at Portsmouth.

Marcus said: “I got a B and Dan got an A which enabled us to go on to do what we’re doing now.

“Everyone just really appreciates all the work Mr Vafeas has done over the years. He had the right balance between being a head teacher and being friendly and he was well respected in his role.

“He doesn’t know we are doing the bike ride yet. I think the school will be announcing it to him soon.

“We’ve both been training for it although we do a lot of sport anyway so we’re quite fit.

“We’ve been cycling most days since we got home in June. The furthest we’ve gone so far is 30 miles.” To date they have raised £295.

• Donations can be made by visiting the website www.justgiving.com/Mr-Vafeas-Cycle