Tributes have been paid after ‘kind and polite’ young footballer takes his own life aged 12

A flood of tributes have been paid after a ‘kind and polite’ young footballer Riley Townsend sadly takes his own life aged 12.

The boy, from Ashfield, and played for the likes of Kirkby Colts FC and Teversal FC had been diagnosed with ADHD and autism.

He reportedly struggling to deal with it, and “had enough” before committing suicide on Sunday the 1st of September.

His death has understandably left his family and the wider community completely devastated, while fans, staff and other clubs within grassroots football paying respect.

The day after his death, a GoFundMe was launched to help his family cover funeral expenses with the current total sitting at over £10,000 (at the time of writing). You can donate something to help by clicking HERE or on the photo below…

https://t.co/XbZphQfdOL

— Grassroots (@Teamgrassroots_) September 4, 2024

Jodie Draycott, a family friend who started the fundraiser, said to Nottinghamshire Live: “At the minute, his parents have got a lot going on but they’re overwhelmed by the support. He’d been struggling with mental health issues for a long time.

“Unfortunately, Riley had had enough and it got to this point.” Ms Draycott added: “He was a cheeky chappy, a proper lad, polite and kind towards his siblings and anybody, really.

“But his mental health got in the way. He struggled a lot and his family are now going through their worst nightmare. He was an amazing young boy and he had a whole future in front of him and he could have gone so far.”

Jodie Draycott, who organised this fundraiser in aid of Abi Hill, wrote on the GoFundMe page: “Hi all I’m trying to raise funds for a family that are going through their worse nightmare, it’s very sad and tragic that their 12yr old boy took his own life due to mental health issues, they are afraid they can’t afford and give him the send off he deserves we are asking people to find it in their hearts to help this family through this very painful time any amount given will be highly appreciated. thank you.

“Abi is my cousin but really like a sister I will be making Abi a beneficial on this account so I can make sure she receives all donations into her bank account the family will be using these funds to help towards giving Riley the best possible send off he deserves.”

Riley had been a pupil at Quarrydale Academy and was due for the new school year at Ashfield Comprehensive School in Sutton-in-Ashfield on Wednesday the 4th of September.

Where to get help if you’re struggling

You don’t have to suffer in silence if you’re struggling with your mental health, or just need to talk. Here are some groups you can contact when you need help.

Samaritans: Phone 116 123, 24 hours a day, text SHOUT to 85258 or email jo@samaritans.org, in confidence

Childline: Phone 0800 1111. Calls are free and won’t show up on your bill.

MIND: Phone 0300 123 3393 for information about how to access mental health support. You can also email info@mind.org.uk.

PAPYRUS: A voluntary organisation supporting suicidal teens and young adults. Phone 0800 068 4141

Depression Alliance: A charity for people with depression. No helpline but offers useful resources and links to other information

Tributes have been paid after the ‘kind and polite’ young footballer takes his own life aged 12…

@hastiepops: So very sad. Just 12 years old. RIP Little One. #RIPRiley

@Ironarmyhd: This really is heartbreaking & I could never imagine the pain & suffering family/friends are going through. For anyone feeling the same as Riley did whatever your age. Please talk with someone. In the original tweet it has phone numbers of several charities if you need help.

@theFIGroll: RIP little man.

@chorleyawaydays:
Please donate if you possibly can
R.I.P young man

@sufc_mike: This is utterly heartbreaking to read. That poor boy and his family. Please support the GoFundMe if you can.

@SelfDaniel: Bless his heart. RIP little man x

@DDeane41: Heartbreaking 💔 and thoughts go with his family at this difficult time

@LeeHaldane3: Absolutely heartbreaking 💔

@ABiancospino: Very sad story 😢

@walzins86: Absolutely heartbreaking 💔

@ollyowl70: That’s so sad rest in peace young man condolences to his family and friends

@markpilleyrdsl: The RDSL is saddened to hear about young Teversal FC Juniors & Kirkby Colts FC player Riley Townsend passing away. We will be participating in a minute’s silence over the weekend in his memory. Talk to someone. DON’T SUFFER ALONE @Rdslfootball

@JimiNicholls: RIP Riley 😞

@Charliethered3: May he rest in peace 💔