A NEW trust which will raise awareness of mental health is set to be launched later this year in memory of a much-loved Upton Rugby Club player who suddenly died towards the end of last year.
Nathan Tomkins – also known to his friends as ‘Tank’ – passed away on Christmas Eve at the age of 22 and to keep his memory alive, his brothers Matt and Jack as well as eight friends plan to introduce the Nathan Tomkins Trust.
Not only will the trust improve the level of mental health awareness in the area but also award funds to groups, clubs and societies in the community.
It is hoped essential funds will be raised through an annual array of social events and sporting challenges.
More than 500 people turned out to Nathan’s funeral at St Peter and Paul’s Church in Upton at the end of January and Matt told the Observer he wanted to create a legacy for his brother.
He said: “We want to make sure Nathan’s name is never forgotten – that’s the first and most important thing.
“Since the funeral we said we would do something and it has taken a few months to start creating a legacy for Nathan.
“We hope to bring a series of events for as long as we can to raise funds for groups and sports clubs in the community to not only raise awareness of mental health but increase participation in sport.
“Everything we do will be done in memory of Nathan’s character – events will be random and all about having good fun.”
Matt and the rest of the board of trustees are now currently working towards getting the Nathan Tomkins Trust a registered charity status.
An official logo has already been designed and a website is expected to launch soon as well as an official Facebook page.
The trust hopes to officially announce its charity status at a grand ball on Saturday, September 2.
Matt added: “There’s plenty of room for development so we can provide lots of support for community groups in the area.
“We have just got to complete some paperwork before going to the charity committee to get us registered.
“We hope Nathan’s trust will grow and develop and last a lifetime.”
Anybody who would like to help with the trust should call Matt on 01684 592189 or 078251 53548.
