A 12-year-old boy has taken his own life after a long battle with mental health issues, ADHD and autism.
Riley Townsend, from Sutton-in-Ashfield and a keen footballer who played for Kirkby Colts FC and Teversal FC, died on Sunday.
Riley, who had two brothers and a sister, was described as ‘polite and kind’ and a ‘cheeky chappy’, but family friends said he had been struggling for some time and had ‘had enough’.
His father Matt confirmed the death of his son online, and said: ‘Miss you son so bad. I will never forget you. This is killing me.’
Photos from his family’s social media pages show dozens of floral tributes and blue balloons left outside his school.
Many wellwishers appear to have written messages on the balloons, as well as leaving cards and gifts behind.
Riley’s older sister shared a series of heartbreaking videos on TikTok and said: ‘May my beautiful brother sleep tight with the angels. Forever 12.’
She also posted a message to Riley, telling him: ‘We ain’t angry at you love. You’re the greatest thing we’ve lost.’
