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National
Sonia Sharma

'He was one in a million' - Heartbreaking tribute to Connor Bensley who died aged 24

"He has left the biggest hole in everyone's hearts" - this is just one of the moving tributes paid to a loving brother who died at the age of just 24.

Connor Bensley's family were left heartbroken after he took his own life in March last year.

But, through their grief, they decided to try and help others who may be suffering in the same way.

They have been raising funds for Papyrus, a charity that aims to prevent suicide and support vulnerable young people.

And this weekend, 40 of Connor's family and friends will be taking on the national Three Peaks Challenge to raise awareness and money for the charity. Many will be travelling from Aberdeen and London to take part.

The group will be scaling the highest peaks of Scotland (Ben Nevis), England (Scaffel Pike) and Wales (Snowdon) all within 24 hours.

Connor, of Gosforth, Newcastle, carried out the same challenge himself in 2016 and now his loved ones have taken inspiration from him.

His sister Savannah, 27, said: "Connor was one in a million, so genuinely funny and generous.

Connor Bensley, of Gosforth, Newcastle, is pictured with his sister Savannah (Savannah Bensley)
Connor Bensley (Savannah Bensley)

"He lit up any room he walked into. He loved going out, loved spending time with his family and friends.

"He was a really hard grafter and worked in Aberdeen and London which is how there are buses travelling from there too, full of family and friends.

"He has left the biggest hole in everyone's hearts who knew him and he is the reason there are so many of us doing this.

"He did the national Three Peaks challenge himself which is why we chose to do this.

"Our lives have changed drastically since Connor passed. By doing this challenge and raising all this money, if we can save just one life and one family's heartache, it will be worth it."

According to Papyrus, suicide is the biggest killer of young people under the age of 35 in the UK.

It runs a national helpline, HopeLineUK, staffed by mental health professionals who provide practical help and advice to vulnerable young people and to those concerned about any young person who may be at risk of suicide.

here.
To support the family's efforts or to make a donation, click
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