The family of a much-loved Vale teen are overwhelmed after hundreds descended for a charity match in his honour – raising an incredible £10,000.
More than 200 people packed out Millburn Park on Sunday as they remembered tragic 17-year-old Lee Stuart.
The popular former Vale of Leven Academy student took his own life in May, prompting his close friends to organise the event while raising awareness of male suicide.
The generosity of those who attended, as well as people donating to a Just Giving page, has seen a massive £10,130 raised for mental health charities.
The cash will be split between Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM), Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide (SOBS) and Back Onside.
Family and friends vow to raise suicide awareness after Alexandria teen's death
Lee’s aunt Lynne McKay told how everyone who attended did their boy proud and provided much needed comfort to his heartbroken family and friends.
She said: “It was absolutely fantastic and we couldn’t have hoped for it to have gone any better.
“There must have been about 200 people there – the stand was completely full.
“It was an emotional day for everyone and Lee’s mum and dad Lizzie and David, and his little brother Regan are so overwhelmed by it all. It meant so much to see everyone come together for Lee.
“I want to thank every single person who has donated either money, alcohol, gifts, vouchers, food, auction items and of course the banners, flyers, posters to get this event noticed.”
A piper kick-started the memorial event, led by Lee’s 12-year-old brother Regan, before a minute’s silence was held in honour of the loved Vale lad.
Regan made the first kick of the ball before the game began with a Shire select side facing a Renton team.
The Shire lads, which featured match organisers Gage Campbell and Lewis McGinty, took control in the first half and were 4-1 up by the interval.
Family of tragic Alexandria teen overwhelmed by response of others sharing experiences of suicide
Dozens of prizes donated by local businesses and event supporters were dished out to fans in a half-time raffle before the teams returned to the pitch.
The game finished 7-2 to the Shire boys in blue and white, with Lewis McGinty being named man of the match.
There were emotional scenes as the family released three balloons spelling out ‘Lee’ while the crowds clapped.
Gage said afterwards: “What a game and what a day. Thank you so much to everyone who came and made it so special for Lee.”
For more local news, click here
