The grieving family of a Helston student who died after moving to London to follow his dreams have launched a fundraising campaign for mental health services in the area.

Luke Connolly grew up in Carleen and went to Sithney School and Helston Community College before moving to the capital to study for a masters degree in journalism.

While there he ran as a councillor for Tower Hamlets, fed the homeless and was heavily involved in bringing about the recent £2 limit for slot machines in London.

Sadly, in the early hours of August 3, Luke lost his fight against mental health at the age of 24.

His brother Antoni said: "Luke was a fantastic brother and best friend.

"Mental health in Cornwall needs a boost and needs people to realise that it's impacting people's lives and families.

"We are trying to raise as much money as possible for mental health services in Cornwall and especially in the Helston area."

A bike ride from John o'Groats to Land's End is being planned and Luke's sister Amy has set up an online fundraising page, at justgiving.com/crowdfunding/amy-connolly that has already raised almost three times the initial £500 target.

She said: "First and foremost he is and always will be the most wonderful son, brother and uncle, and was a special friend to so many people.

"We thought Luke brightened up our lives, but actually, he brightened the lives of everyone he met. Luke was the one that always had not only a smile but time for anyone. He fought hard to help others throughout his life and we feel in his memory we would like to support local charities who can offer guidance and help to those when they need it."

Antoni added: "Mental health is by far one of the most undervalued and misunderstood sectors of our national health service. "Too many people unfortunately suffer in silence, in fear of speaking their feelings because of being ashamed, frightened, or not having the right services to turn too.

"My amazing brother and quite frankly one of the brightest people I have ever known lost his life to mental health. I urge people to please consider supporting mental health. Even if it's just being a shoulder for somebody to cry on, a person there when nobody else is. Please don't turn your back on people when they need it most."

A funeral for Luke will take place at 11am next Tuesday, August 21 at St Breaca Church in Breage. His family have said that everyone who knew Luke are welcome, with people encouraged to wear whatever they feel comfortable in - whether that is colourful clothes or suits.

The family are asking for donations to the fundraising in lieu of flowers.