A mum has paid tribute to her 'cheeky' son who was found dead in a woodland just hours after he disappeared.
Ben Meah, from Runcorn in Cheshire, had struggled with mental health issues ever since falling ill with a strep infection, according to mum Cindy.
He had missed much of his last year of secondary school, causing him to lose touch with his friends, with his situation later impacted by lockdown.
But in happier times Ben had been a “very active” child, Cindy told the Liverpool Echo, describing him as “adventurous” with a “cheeky” sense of humour.
She shared that he loved playing football, including for local teams Heath Rangers Barca and Runcorn Linnets, as well as climbing.
"He was a happy child, dead adventurous, he loved climbing trees, and went on PGL holidays, he loved doing the abseiling, even fencing - he was so active”, she said.
Describing her grief following the loss of Ben as feeling like “drowning”, Cindy said his life was changed forever when aged 15 he contracted a form of strep infection and rheumatic fever, later needing two heart valves.
Constant fatigue from his illnesses meant he would attend three days of education per week at most, with only Wednesday for academic classes.
Ben was found dead in an area near where he grew up in Norton, Runcorn, at 10am on Friday after he was reported missing a few hours earlier.
Cindy now believes her son's story can encourage young men to open up about their mental health issues, and said: “I want them to reach out and get help.
“There are people out there who are willing to help them and support them.
“You just need to ask.”
Cindy's friend Louise Evison is now helping to organise the funeral and is currently running a Go Fund Me page to raise money for the service.
In her appeal, she said: “This morning my best friend Cindy received news that no parent should ever have to hear.
“Her beautiful son Ben tragically took his own life at 20 years of age.
“Ben had just started a new job and was trying hard to get past some mental health issues that he had recently been suffering with.
“He was a beloved son, brother and uncle.
“He will be missed beyond belief but never ever forgotten.
“Rest easy beautiful boy.”
If you're struggling and need to talk, the Samaritans operate a free helpline open 24/7 on 116 123. Alternatively, you can email jo@samaritans.org or visit their site to find your local branch
