A Colchester family have raised more than £10,000 in memory of their son through a growing community festival designed to support others facing devastating loss.
The Chayse West Legacy’s annual Chayse West Fest brought together football, live music and businesses to raise £10,289 this year.
The event honours Chayse West, who died aged 18 after being struck by a vehicle in a hit-and-run in 2022.
Held in Colchester, the festival has become a heartfelt fixture in the local calendar – combining a competitive five-a-side tournament with a family fun day atmosphere.
Chayse’s mother Leah West said the day saw 16 teams take part in the men’s tournament, alongside live music from Gorgeous Trash and sets from DJs Owen McDonnell and Stan Boden.
Beyond the football, families were able to enjoy a wide range of stalls and activities, from dog treats and handmade gifts to children’s games and bouncy castles.
A newly introduced kids’ zone, sponsored by Ardleigh Building Supplies and GMP Projects, proved especially popular.
Businesses such as Sibbons Plant Hire and Direct Transport supported the event, with others donating raffle prizes.
Mrs West said: “This was a wholesome family day with lots going on and our aim is to make it bigger and better every year so we can raise more money to support families.
“We have already supported 13 families, which is a tragedy in itself, but the more we go on, the more we realise there is so much more we need to do and so many more that don’t know we exist.
“There is so much to putting on an event like this and we really couldn’t do it without our friends and families’ support.”
The Chayse West Legacy was set up by the family following Chayse’s death, with the aim of supporting other bereaved families trying to cope with similar grief.
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