Vehicle convoy to pay tribute to boy, 12, who died

A convoy of cars and vans will pay tribute to a 12-year-old boy who took his own life.

Keen footballer Riley Townsend from Sutton-in-Ashfield, Nottinghamshire, died on 1 September after struggling with his mental health for some time.

On Friday evening the convoy will go from Riley's school, Quarrydale Academy, and travel past his house.

Organiser Beth Jenkins said: "Riley loved his cars, vans and motorbikes and this is a way of highlighting mental health in children and giving him a good send-off."

Ms Jenkins, 23, from Mansfield, said: "Riley's two big passions were football and modified cars and vans.

"I run a car group and we have known the family, so I have contacted everyone in my group and told them to spread the word.

"We have said we are doing this for a little boy and we have loads of vans coming with lights and sirens and things.

"We have got cars and bikes which are putting balloons on.

"One thing we want people to do is carry the message 'Forever 12' because that's how old Riley was before he lost his battle with his mental health.

"It's not talked about enough, especially in children and this will hopefully let people know about it."

A collection will also be held to help the family pay for funeral expenses.

In a statement, Riley's family said: "He would have been over the moon about this because he loved his cars.

"To see the support from everyone taking part has just left us lost for words."

If you or someone you know are having feelings of despair or emotionally distressed, you can find organisations that offer advice and support on the BBC Action Line website.

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