Dad nears end of 'emotional challenge' for late son

Tom Keys-Toyer Tom Keys-Toyer, holding red polls on the side of trail next to the seaTom Keys-Toyer
Tom Keys-Toyer is fundraising for Bath-based mental health charity Boys in Mind

A father who has trekked 630 miles (1,014km) along the South West Coastal Path in memory of his son said it has been "a physical and emotional challenge".

Tom Keys-Toyer, from Bristol, set off from Minehead on 2 November and will finish his run in Poole, Dorset on Saturday.

He is fundraising for Bath-based mental health charity Boys in Mind, after his 17-year-old son Sam took his own life in 2020.

The 51-year-old has raised more than £44,000 and said: "The support I've received has been overwhelming."

Tom Keys-Toyer Tom Keys-Toyer, stood with his son Sam who took his own lifeTom Keys-Toyer
Tom Keys-Toyer's son Sam took his own life in 2020

"Knowing that am dedicating this run to my middle son Sam spurs me on every step and the fact I'm raising awareness and funds for Boys in Mind, a cause so close to mine and my family’s heart, keeps me going," Mr Keys-Toyer said.

"I hope this challenge has raised the much-needed awareness that it is OK for boys and young men to be vulnerable, to talk and share their worries and that it is so important for them to look after their minds.

"I hope that this challenge encourages boys and young lads to open up."

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