THE family of a former University of York student who took his own life has launched a charitable foundation to support young people struggling with mental health problems.

Sabbatical officers from the university’s Students’ Union are planning to take part in a sponsored skydive next month to raise funds for the foundation and raise awareness of mental health on campus.

Charlie Watkins, who was originally from Suffolk, died last year shortly after appearing as a contestant on ITV’s dating show Take Me Out.

An inquest heard he had taken anti-depressants in the past and went on the programme in a bid to find "the one" after saying he was disappointed he had been unlucky in love during his three years studying at the university.

After graduating, he worked at York Chocolate Story in King’s Square.

His twin brother Harry subsequently decided to set up the Charlie Watkins Foundation, with the aim of raising awareness of mental health problems and offering more support to those suffering.

The York Students’ Union said that throughout this term, there would be fundraising on nights out, karaoke nights, and charity film screenings, all building up to the skydive.

To sponsor them, go to justgiving.com/campaigns/charity/yusu/sabbskydive