An annual festival held in memory of a young man who had "an infectious spirit" returns today (Saturday) - and hopes to raise even more money for Cornish mental health charities.
On August 3, 2018 Luke Connolly passed away after struggles with mental health issues. A year later 'Lukefest' was held in his memory.
Luke Connolly who sadly lost his life in 2018. Credit: Lukefest Facebook page
It has since become an annual event. This year's festival will take place today, Saturday, July 30, starting at 12pm at The Queen's Arms in Breage, and hopes to raise money for mental health charities Man Down and Your Voice.
There will be a bouncy castle, a barbecue and a silent raffle, with live music throughout the day.
Will Keating will kick off live performances throughout the day, which also include British/American pop rock band Boundless Brothers who will then be followed by Jack O' Hearts, Kate Plumtree, Change The Letter, Whippletree, Marmalade Shed, and lastly Atlantic Horizon.
Luke after graduatiing from univsersity: Credit: Lukefest Facebook Page
Since Luke's passing the family has already raised more than £10,000 and donated to Valued Lives, The Invictus Trust, and Man Down, who all work to support men’s mental health.
Luke, who had studied at Helston Community College, wanted to make the world a better place: he fed the homeless, promoted gambling restrictions, and was a huge advocate for people to speak up about their mental health. Luke also ran as a local election candidate in his area.
Official Lukefest poster 2022. Credit: Lukefest Facebook page
Writing on the Lukefest tribute page, Luke's sister Amy Connolly paid tribute to her brother: "Luke brightened not just our lives, but of all the people he knew.
"He was someone with genuine empathy, an infectious spirit, always had the ability to make others happy, and had time for anyone.
"All he ever wanted was to make the world a better place for people.
"There are no words that I could ever put together that will do him justice, and no words to ever describe just how much of an incredible young man he was. He was the co-curator of my childhood, my best friend and without him, life is so much darker."
To find out more visit: https://www.facebook.com/lukefest2021/
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