AGONY at the memory of a young life wasted has inspired an attempt to raise thousands of pounds for charity.
James Llewellyn was popular and sociable, and forging a new career working in recruitment in London. He had been diagnosed with depression but had been in good health.
But when his mum went to wake him up for work at their Reigate Hill home on December 11, 2009, she found he had hanged himself.
His tragic death, described as a "moment of madness" by his family, came out of the blue but the memory of James, and the support a small charity gave to his friends and relatives after his death, has prompted one of his best friends to organise a charity black-tie ball.
Jack Smith, 24, who now lives in Horley, had shared a flat with the former Reigate College student in Redhill.
"He was diagnosed when he was 17 and was on medication, but there were no signs of him being unwell," he said. "It was just completely shocking when he died, it was a horrible time."
Mr Smith is holding the ball to raise funds for Papyrus, a charity which aims to prevent suicides in young people.
"I am organising the event primarily in memory of James," he said.
"James was a very memorable, charismatic young gentleman who many people in our area were extremely fond of.
"As he was so well-loved I think it [the ball] is a perfect platform to raise awareness about depression in youngsters and to increase understanding about how to prevent young suicides.
"However I want the event to be for Papyrus as a whole and the great work they do to prevent young suicides. I feel James's story is a great way to expand people's knowledge as it was so shocking and unexpected at the time. James had many friends, so it will also be a great way for everyone to get together and celebrate his life and raise very important funds."
The ball is being held at the Effingham Park Hotel near Gatwick, on November 9. It features a three-course meal, including wine, live entertainment, guest speakers, a grand raffle and charity auction, with prizes ranging from shirts signed by sporting legends to weekend breaks and an iPad mini.
For more information, visit www.facebook.com/ PapyrusCharityBall or buy tickets at www.papyruscharity ball.eventbrite.co.uk
