In the early hours of Saturday, 8 November, our dear friends lost their beloved son, Harvey. He was struck off his bike by a driver as he cycled home after work. Due to this being a death by dangerous driving the family will have to endure the long process of a potential court case.

Harvey was just 21 years old, a young dad, a supportive partner, a cherished son and a much-loved sibling, grandson and nephew.

Harvey studied Health & Social Care at college and found his calling, following a career working for healthcare providers, including our local hospital, a children's hospice and, most recently, an eating disorders clinic. He was always wanting to improve his position and better himself, with a promotion coming and other work option with a job offer on the day before his life was cut short. Harvey made a lasting impact through his compassion, hard work and dedication.

Wanting to give Harvey the opportunity to enjoy and excel in something non-academic, Harvey's parents organised for him to have cello lessons. And excel he did, achieving a Grade 8 qualification at 15 years old, he continued to study with the same teacher he'd had since he was a young child. As he progressed through the grades, he received support from The Amber Trust, which provides musical opportunities to blind and partially sighted children, giving those children the opportunity to perform in concerts for their families. Harvey would take part in these concerts and would help and support the other children, even letting them play his cello.

Harvey met his partner whilst volunteering. When she became pregnant at a young age, together and with support from their family they made the brave decision to embrace parenthood. Harvey took his responsibility incredibly seriously and flourished as a devoted dad. He worked immensely hard to provide his small family with financial security, food on the table and a roof over their heads. More than this, though, Harvey was present for his son from day one, changing nappies, feeding, playing and settling his boy to sleep when his work schedule allowed.

Harvey’s loss has had a devastating impact on his partner; she relied on Harvey for support with managing their home and day-to-day finances. She is now facing significant challenges as she adjusts to life without him, and she has reached out to the family for support - this is one of the reasons we decided to establish this crowdfunding page.

Harvey's gentleness and kindness touched everyone he met, from friends in his cello group to colleagues at work, and everyone in between. He has been described by so many as a sweet soul and beautiful human being.

The hole he has left in the lives of his family is tremendous. The loss and devastation is indescribable, especially for his little boy, who doesn't understand why his dad isn't coming home each evening.

As Harvey's friends, we would like to offer some financial support to Harvey's partner and son in an effort to replace, albeit a modicum, of what Harvey would have provided for them throughout his life. Savings that will enable Harvey's son to enjoy the aspects of life every parent wants for their child: fun outings, special events, maybe even music lessons like his dad. We want to provide him with some savings for when he is Harvey's age and can work towards a first car or home.

If you knew Harvey or have been touched by his story and would like to make a contribution, no matter how large or small, we will ensure it makes a meaningful difference to his family’s life, honouring Harvey’s memory and supporting the people he cherished so dearly.

On behalf of Harvey's family, we thank you all for the love, support, and compassion you have shown since that tragic day. They have been incredibly touched by the kind words, which have helped affirm what a wonderful young man Harvey was.