In memory of Dominic
AROUND 150 family, friends, students and staff gathered at Loughborough College for a charity event paying tribute to Dominic Sullivan.
‘Dom’s Cup’ aimed to honour the memory of the former student who died in October last year, aged 17.
A football match and host of family activities also boosted funds for national UK charity Papyrus – dedicated to the prevention of young suicide - and the Leicestershire Downs Syndrome Group, raising more than £1,000.
Engineering student Cyrus Brierley, who was Dom’s best friend, said: “It was fantastic. The sun was shining and the match was great with the two teams made up of all Dom’s friends – he loved football.
“There were games and face painting for the younger children, Dom would definitely have been pleased.
“Dom was very close to his younger brother Jake, who has Down’s Syndrome and he supported the charity.
“The aim was also for the event to raise awareness of mental health issues amongst young people.
“A shield was donated and presented to the winners by Jake and one of Dom’s other brothers, Stephen.
“The aim is to make this an annual event.
“I have to say a big thank you to Loughborough College, particularly to Dani and Emma, for supporting me in organising everything. It really meant a lot.
“It was the perfect way to remember Dom.”
Emma Setchfield, Learner Services manager at Loughborough College, said: “We are always happy to support fund-raising – but on this occasion it meant so much to Dom’s family and friends and our students.
“We had so much support locally and from across the college in the approach to Sunday’s event and on the day.
“Jake presented the shield in his brother’s memory wearing the football kits and boots Dominic had bought him only a few weeks before he died.
“His mum Helen spoke of her wish that we not only remember Dominic but also her hope that the event would help raise awareness amongst young people experiencing mental health issues that there are people they can reach out to.
“It was a lovely memorial for Dominic.”
Stephen Richardson, Dominic’s older brother, attended the event alongside Dominic’s mum Helen and his brothers Thomas, Ryan and Jake.
He said: “Everyone enjoyed themselves.
“There was such a positive feeling throughout the event.
“We’re all very grateful to Cyrus for coming up with the idea and to everyone who helped make it happen.”