Tributes paid to popular Hartlepool teenager Benji Catchpole, 15, as charity launch fundraiser for his heartbroken family

Benji’s body was found in woods in the Clavering area of town on the evening of on Sunday, May 24.

Local charity Miles For Men have launched an online fundraising page on behalf of his heartbroken family and to give him ‘the send off he deserves’.

Benji went to Manor Community Academy where he was said to be loved by all his teachers and friends.

On the JustGiving page, Miles For Men said: “Benji was a popular young lad who had his whole life ahead of him.

“Benji's family have been left heartbroken by the loss of their beloved son, brother.

“All money raised will be used to give Benji the send of that he deserves, any money raised over will be donated to the family.

“Cheryl (Benji’s mum) and the rest of the family would like to thank you for your kind words and messages through this heartbreaking time, can we please ask that [you] respect their privacy.”

Within hours of going live the fund had raised more than a third of the £4,000 target and currently stands at more than £1,500.

One person who donated to the page wrote: “R.i.p mate you were took from this earth too soon gone but never forgotten x”.

Dozens of people have also left messages of condolence on Miles For Men's Facebook page.

One said: “Such a sad loss our thoughts and prayers are with his friends and family.”

Another wrote: “Absolutely heartbreaking. Sending my deepest condolences to Cheryl and her family. Rest in peace x.”

And one parent said: “Devastating always a cheeky chappy fly high young man.”

The emergency services attended Tremaine Close at around 8.30pm on Sunday.

Cleveland Police said there are not believed to be any suspicious circumstances surrounding Benji’s death, and specialist officers have been supporting his family.

Anyone who wishes to donate to Benji’s fund can do so at Miles For Men’s JustGiving page called R.I.P Benji Catchpole.

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