A teenager taking on a half-marathon in memory of his brother and close friend has raised thousands of pounds.

Alfie Ellis, 13, will run on Saturday, June 10, after his world 'changed forever' after losing two people close to his heart in devastating circumstances.

His brother Riley, a keen musician from Weymouth, took his own life at the age of 17 in August 2022, while his close friend Trey Rodd died at his home in Weymouth in October 2022.

Both boys were described as much-loved and popular young people, and Wey Valley Academy student Alfie said he wanted to raise awareness of the help out there for those struggling with their mental health.

A 'Rock for Riley' concert at Weymouth College, where Riley attended, will also be taking place on Thursday, May 25 in his memory. 

'Alfie's Run for Riley and Trey' will see the teenager run a half-marathon in Riley and Trey's memory, splitting the raised funds between Young Minds and Gully's Place Trust Fund, which supports seriously ill children and their families.

He's already raised more than £6,000,

He will take in all of his sport club venues during the 13.5 mile run, running from Dorchester Cricket Club, past Wey Valley School, to Weymouth Hockey Club, Wessex Golf Course, The Marsh and then along the seafront, finishing at Lodmoor Country Play Park.

Alfie said: "I have chosen Young Minds as I want young people to know there is help out there and hope no other families have to go through what we are going through.

"The reason I have chosen to support Gully's Trust is that they have helped both families since Riley and Trey have been gone. If you could support me that would be amazing."

Alfie set himself a target of £250 and at the time of writing, has raised £6,223 for charity. To support him, click here. 

A separate fundraiser, also for Gully's Trust, is being run in memory of Trey by his family and has raised more than £8,000. To donate, click here.