A GRADUATE’S tragic death from asthma has prompted her family to launch an awareness campaign.

Vikki Floss, 22, a University of Winchester graduate, died on March 3 last year after suffering an asthma attack the previous evening.

Her father, Nigel, will launch a campaign in the city on May 5 to raise awareness and help charities that research the condition.

“Vikki was an enthusiastic, lively, bubbly young lady with her future before her,” said Mr Foss. “Her passion was for children and their well being.

“She wanted to be a teacher but when she learnt that it was not politically correct to provide hugs to children in distress she came home with an idea to have a large teddy bear with her in her class in future years to provide this service.

“We wanted to support the Asthma, Allergy and Inflammation Research (AAIR) charity in their work and therefore arrived at the AWAAIRE bear to help us pay tribute to Vikki's love of children together with raising awareness of the dangers of asthma.”

The campaign is selling bears for £50, with profits going to AAIR. It is hoped Saints legend Lawrie McMenemy will attend on May 5 to present bears to those who have already purchased them.

For more information visit www.awaairebear.com.