A charity ball is being held in memory of a boy whose love of life was not dampened by asthma, allergies and arthritis.

Matthew Hackney died after a severe allergic reaction, called anaphylaxis, just before his 13th birthday four years ago.

His family are now organising a black-tie, dinner and dance on November 8 to raise money for a foundation which was set up in his memory.

His cousin Ashley Rumbol said the ball at Surrey Downs Golf Club, in Kingswood, was their third successful event and it sold out in just a week.

She said: "The charity is doing great work raising money for asthma and anaphylaxis research, supporting the local community and supporting a charity which provides grievance counselling for young people who have lost siblings."

Last year’s ball raised £2,800 and funded breathing equipment at a children's hospital, training on how to deal with panic situations and a youth football team.

www.matthewhackneyfoundation.co.uk