A WIRRAL trio have helped to raise £3,000 in memory of their close friend with a fundraising day in aid of suicide prevention charity CALM.

John Anderson was just 24-years-old when he took his own life in 2011.

Wirral Globe:

Jamie Gill, Andrew Holden and Jon-Paul Realey

His death devastated those around him, with the talented footballer seemingly happy in his life.

Since his death, friends Andrew Holden, Jamie Gill and Jon-Paul Realey have held an annual fundraiser to help them feel closer to John and celebrate his life while also raising awareness to others.

Andy, from Bebington, said: “John was my best friend and I knew him from the age of five. We went to primary school together and remained friends throughout.

“It was April 22, 2011 when John sadly took his own life. It was a heartbreaking day for all his family and friends. John was a popular person and had a lot of friends – he was always the life and soul of the party.

“His death has left an empty space in our lives. We decided from then on we would dedicate our spare time to ensure that this does not happen to anyone else and as a result, came across the charity CALM.”

Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) is a national charity that exists to prevent male suicides in the UK.

Suicide is the single biggest killer of young men in the UK. In 2012, there were 5,981 suicides in the UK, of which 77% were male.

CALM offers confidential, anonymous and free support to men and their families and friends.

Andy had already held two charity events consisting of a testimonial football match and tournament and has raised just under £5,000.

The third event in John’s memory took place on Saturday, July 18 and featured an open age football tournament at Bebington High Sports College, followed by a fundraiser with live music, raffles and auctions at The Railway Inn in Port Sunlight.

Money raised from the event - £3,300 in total - will go to CALM.

“John showed no sign of depression and was always happy so it was a massive shock to everyone that knew him,” said 29-year-old Andy.

“He loved his family and friends and would do anything for anything for anyone.”

Andy added: “I miss John every day and there isn’t a day that goes by when he isn’t in my thoughts. Even if my friends and I go out, a story or memory about John will always crop up and make us laugh.”