Western Daily Press (Saturday)
£20k raised for family of stab victim Charley, 16
PEOPLE across Somerset have raised more than £20,000 for the family of Charley Bates, who was stabbed in Radstock last Sunday.
The 16-year-old died in The Street and police have launched a murder probe, arresting three people.
Joshua Delbono, 18, of Slipps Close, Frome, has been charged with murder and will next appear at Bristol Crown Court on September 30.
Now, one of Charley’s old school friends, Will Lakey, has set up a crowdfunding page for his family. So far, more than £20,000 has been donated by people across the county.
On the Go Fund Me page, Will, who is from Peasedown St John, wrote that Charley had been there for him when others were not.
“I may not be his blood family but he was a brother to me, someone who stood by the people he cared about the most. Char never put himself first, he always thought of other people... He was such a kind kid who never deserved to have his life stripped away from him,” he wrote.
Will concluded his tribute by saying the money raised would go to Charley’s family for funeral costs or to allow his mother to take some time off work. Many people have also left messages of condolence for the teenager’s family on the website.
One woman said: “The amount raised so far shows the world how much you were loved. May you rest in peace Char.”
Another wrote: “Helen and Leah, I can’t find adequate words to express how sad we were to hear about your gorgeous Charley. He was such a cheerful and sunny person.”
And one said: “As a grandmother to a teenage boy my heart is so heavy with sadness that this beautiful young lad’s life has been cut so short. God bless all his family and friends who have to stay together and be strong for one another at this sad time.”
A gathering to celebrate Charley’s life has been organised, with attendees encouraged to “wear yellow”, and his family have asked for privacy at this very difficult time. Earlier this week, they paid tribute to the 16-year-old.
They said: “Our beautiful Charley boy. We are all very proud of you. You are desperately missed by so many.”
As the police investigation continues, they are asking people with information to come forward.