A local gym has raised more than £5,000 in memory of teen, Joe Abbess, who sadly died in a tragic event earlier this year.

Joe Abbess sadly passed away at just 17-years-old in May and his family and friends have been fundraising in his memory for Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance.

The gym that Joe attended, Snap Fitness Woolston, hosted an open day on Saturday 23rd September. It was an incredibly special way to honour and celebrate Joe's life while raising funds for the service that cared for him. The event was organised by Snap Fitness Woolston, Joe’s mum, Ness Abbess, and his friends and family.

Ness Abbess, Joe’s mum said:

Joe was a wonderful son and brother who is sadly missed, we are heartbroken and devastated by his death. His family and friends will always love him and we are incredibly proud of the fabulous young man he was. He was kind and generous, loving and caring, hardworking and funny. Joe was a talented trainee chef, with a bright future ahead of him. We were privileged to have him in our lives for 17 years and we are so sorry he will never fulfil his dreams and ambitions. He was enjoying a day at Bournemouth beach before the tragedy unfolded. We are now fundraising for Dorset and Somerset Ambulance, who cared for Joe at the scene.

The gym open day included a prize raffle draw, face painting, cake stall and fitness classes. There was also a guest appearance from local football legend Franny Benali.

A fantastic £5,319 was raised on the open day and from online donations. Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance appreciate the support of everyone who was involved in the event and would like to express their most heartfelt thanks. All donations raised will help to ensure that the air ambulance crew can continue to be there for patients today, tomorrow and in the future.

Jill and Martin DSAA volunteers, Gabi patient and family liaison and Mark Case, Critical Care Practitioner went along to Snap Fitness Woolston on Saturday 25th November to accept the cheque.

Donate in memory of Joe today: www.dsairambulance.org.uk/inmemoryof/joe-abbess

Thank you for supporting our charity in Joe's memory, it really means a lot to us.