FAMILY and friends of a much-loved and popular DJ who tragically died are pulling together to undertake a gruelling fundraising challenge in his memory.
Toby Sullivan was just 30 years old when he suddenly died on Christmas Day last year, leaving his friends and family devastated.
At the time of his death, Toby, from Wibsey, was receiving professional counselling for addiction and money raised will help to ensure other people can get the help they need.
A group of around 50 people will do the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge next month to raise the vital funds.
Toby's mum, Jain Atkinson, 54, who will be taking part along with other family members, said: "He was a lovely, lovely son. He always had a smile on his face, he was a really sociable kid, he loved his music, loved his DJing - that was his life."
She added: "Addiction is an illness, but it's also a disease and if people get the right help they can sometimes be treated and there is, also, always hope.
"Toby will always be with me, what gets me through these devastating days is that my son is now free of his demons."
Jain urged: "People need to talk - if you've got a problem, you need to talk about it with somebody and get help."
Toby's close friend Jonathan Ward, 31, who runs The Yorkshire Chair barbers in Wyke, is heading up the fundraising.
Speaking about Toby, he said: "He was just a very, very, likeable, sociable guy.
"Everyone knows him for his smile, you couldn't help but be happy around him. He had a very good career in DJing, he was really into his music.
"It's hard to believe it's happened."
Toby, a former pupil of St Bede's School, had been having private counselling with Paddy Gallagher at Leeds-based Reach Your Potential, as it had been a struggle accessing it through the NHS.
It's now hoped others will be able to benefit thanks to the money raised through the Three Peaks Challenge, which is taking place on April 16 to create a lasting legacy to Toby.
The funds will be used to further support personal therapy for those in need, and to help fund Men's Group venues.
A £5,000 target has been set and those involved are well on their way, with more than £1,600 in the pot already.
If you would like to donate, visit: www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/reach-your-potential
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