Weymouth: Rock for Riley concert at Weymouth College

Rock for Riley took place at The Bay Theatre, Weymouth College, on Thursday, May 25 in memory of former student Riley Ellis.

The popular music student tragically took his own life aged just 17 in August of last year.

To celebrate his life, the Dorset college decided to put on a concert attended by his family, friends and students, with all money raised going to Young Minds UK, a mental health charity for young people.

Three bands performed on the night: The Haze, who Riley was playing for at the time of his death, Rossco (and Co.), and the student band.

More than 200 visitors were given a programme on Riley's life, while his younger brother Alfie, 13, joined in for a song with The Haze at the show, which could become an annual event. 

Riley's dad Mike said that the family were 'overwhelmed' by the 'amount of love' shown for his son in the room.

He also wanted to 'start a conversation' about mental health and hoped the gig would encourage others who are struggling to seek support.

"It was emotional at times but not too much to take away from a superb atmosphere created by the bands and the crowd," Mike told the Dorset Echo.

"Everybody was there for two reasons - to have a good night, but also to support Young Minds.

"There were a few parts where I choked back some tears but not too many that I could not enjoy the music.

Weymouth teenager Riley Ellis was remembered at an emotional concert last week at Weymouth College (Image: Mike Ellis)

"It was perfectly balanced and the college did so well. It was difficult but they got it right.

"We were there for one person but I have realised that we are not unique in any way at all - this is happening day in, day out, all around us.

"It is all about starting a conversation to stop this from happening, and it has got to stop somehow."

Mike said that Alfie made the most of his '15 minutes of fame' when he got on stage, with the crowd chanting his name.

The teenager is also embarking on a 13.5 mile charity run on Saturday, June 10 in memory of his brother and close friend Trey Rodd, from Weymouth, who also sadly took his own life last year.

"He went on with so much confidence and swagger - everyone was calling for him and he started to hold his ears, inviting the crowd," Mike added.

"I want to thank the college - they put a lot of time into this and I massively appreciate what they have done.

"It was 'Rock for Riley, but also 'Rock for a Conversation' about what is going on out there.

"The amount of love that we felt in the room was overwhelming. It was lovely to feel it and see that everyone there loved him and was missing him.

"We are in our own bubble grieving but we also saw that 200 people were also grieving in their own way."

Lead singer of The Haze and Riley’s best friend, Llewan Matthews, 19, also described the event as 'overwhelming' as he played in front of his biggest crowd yet.

The Haze plans to release its new album – Chasing Lullabies – after the concert, which will contain songs featuring Riley’s pre-recorded guitar notes.

"I am a bit speechless, really. It was really special to see people come together for Riley was powerful," Llewan said.

"We loved having Alfie up there with us - he did himself, Riley and his family proud.

"You are never going to stop people from feeling sad, but it is all about getting help."

Alfie has raised nearly £8,000 for his charity run in June. To support him, visit www.givewheel.com/fundraising/758/alfies-run-for-riley-and-trey