Love Island's Paige Turley is running in the London marathon to raise money in memory of her late friend.
Paige is raising money for Mental Health UK with a target of raising £4,000 – and she's currently just over halfway to meet her target on JustGiving.
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Speaking to Daily Star about her decision to take part in support of her friend, Jamie Aitchison, who died at just 20-years-old in December.
Paige said: "There was a ripple effect in the community because of he devastation of losing Jamie. We wanted to come together and do something because we needed to make sure we keep his memory alive.
"There are a few things that have happened in my community in the name of Jamie and I wanted to do something that would really push me out of my comfort zone."
She explained that she opted to take part in the marathon to raise money for the mental health charity but also wanted to do something that would really push her, adding: "When I run my body screams at me to give up.
"To do it I think is such a sense of achievement. I struggled in training but I know once I get over that finish line it's going to be overwhelming."
The TV star and singer also shared sweet comments about her friend too as she declared he was a "bubbly and happy guy", adding that he was always so smiley and the news "came as a shock".
Paige also shared an update on her JustGiving page as she wrote: "In December last year my hometown sadly lost another friend, son, brother, grandson and upstanding guy, Jamie Aitchison aged 20, after he sadly lost his battle against the scourge of mental health.
"The tragic news has left a hole in many peoples hearts with many in the community struggling to come to terms with the loss of Jamie, who was the light in a dark room."
She explained: "Unfortunately, this is news that is heard all too often with mental health reported to be effecting 1 in 4 people in the UK."
Paige said all donations will be going towards Mental Health UK as she explained it's divided into four charities covering Scotland, England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
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For emotional support you can call the Samaritans 24-hour helpline on 116 123, email [email protected], visit a Samaritans branch in person or go to the Samaritans website.
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