By Taraneh Fathalian
The family of a Brighton teenager who died in a car crash last year are holding a charity event in his memory this Sunday.
Alex Jackson died aged just 19 when the car he was travelling in crashed on Warren Road by the racehill a year ago tomorrow.
The driver of the car, Mo Ruhomally, was jailed for five years for causing death by careless driving earlier this month. He was found to be over the drink drive limit by police following the crash.
The other two passengers in the car, Alex’s girlfriend Chantelle Marriot, 18, and Scott Hammond, 20, were also injured in the crash, with Chantelle spending a month in hospital.
Sunday’s football-themed event will raise money for You Raise Me Up, an Eastbourne charity started to help families who have suffered the death of a child aged between 16 and 25.
Lisa Jackson, Alex’s aunt, said: “They know how people are feeling; they support you every step of the way. We want to offer something back and return their favour.”
Visitors can enjoy a football match, auction, raffle prizes, shopping stalls, Christmas gifts and more. Prizes include a spa day at the Grand Hotel, a day at Brighton Races, and a Pandora Bracelet.
You Raise Me Up Charity was established in 2011 in Eastbourne by Fraser and Jane Brooks, whose daughter died of heart failure. Since it started, at least 25 people have received emotional and financial help.
Chrissie Hearn, a counsellor, said: “Anyone can receive help from the charity. We are the only charity that provides this level of support, both emotionally and financially.”
Counselling meetings for parents, siblings, and friends are held at the charity’s coffee shop in Milifield, Polegate every six weeks. The bereaved can talk to staff or share their story in a group session as well as seek private counselling.
Various fundraising events take place in Eastbourne such as quiz nights, marathon and race days. The most important event is the annual golf day, which also includes dinner and entertainment.
Volunteer Jessie Pashky said the charity raised £9,000 at the last golf day on July 31.
Events are open to everyone and people can get information on the charity website, Facebook page or by calling 01323 482 772.
