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Memorial football match returns for Istead Rise teenager Elliott Holmes

A charity football match which raised thousands of pounds for a mental health charity in memory of a popular teen is set to return.

Former Meopham Secondary School pupil Elliott Holmes took his own life in June last year aged 19.

A charity football match was held at Istead Rise recreational ground in memory of Elliott Holmes
A charity football match was held at Istead Rise recreational ground in memory of Elliott Holmes

His death triggered an outpouring of grief in the local community with family and friends sharing touching tributes.

A balloon release event was held at Camer Park, Meopham and a bench unveiled in his memory.

Friends also helped organise a charity football match at Istead Rise recreational ground which raised money for the mental health charity Mind.

Now the event is set to return for a second year with an expanded format.

Elliott's step-dad Peter Scutts said: "As some of you may know, my son, Elliott, after suffering with his mental health, took his own life last year at just 19.

Elliott Holmes from Istead Rise died in June this year.
Elliott Holmes from Istead Rise died in June this year.

"His many friends were touched by his passing and within three weeks raised £10,000 for charity.

"One of the events was a charity football match between his team mates.

"We decided to make it an annual event and this year it's going to be even bigger, raising more money for organisations dedicated to helping improve people's mental health."

The event will take place on Istead Rise Community Field on Saturday September 4 from 12.15pm.

It will see squads made up of dads and grandads pitted against Elliott's old team, Istead United, who in turn will play a 11 aside game against a team from the Railway Tavern pub.

There will also be a BBQ ,raffle and a penalty shoot-out for kids.

A charity football match held in memory of Istead Rise teenager Elliott Holmes is set to return
A charity football match held in memory of Istead Rise teenager Elliott Holmes is set to return

Entrance to the event will be via donation and stall pitches are also available.

The event is still looking for more local sponsors to cover the cost. Sponsorships are available from £75.

If you can help contact Peter Scutts at peter@scutts.co.uk.

For confidential support on an emotional issue, call Samaritans on 116 123 at any time.

If you want to talk to someone confidentially, click here.

Read more: All the latest news from Gravesend

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