A 25-year-old man, who moved from Devon to Western Australia for a fresh start, tragically ended his life, according to an inquest. Daniel Willis, originally from Plymouth and raised in Tavistock, passed away near Perth in July 2024, with the inquest held in Exeter recently.

Daniel was well-known for his football skills, having played for Tavistock Community Football Club and undergoing trials at Plymouth Argyle youth academy. To honor his memory, a charity football match is being arranged to raise funds for a local mental health charity.

After immigrating to Australia in 2022 and working as an engineer, Daniel was reported missing by friends. His body was found by a park ranger on the outskirts of the city. It was revealed that he had been taking medication for anxiety and depression, which was present at therapeutic levels in his system at the time of his death. The coroner ruled his death as suicide, noting no past mental health issues in UK medical records.

In memory of Daniel, his brother organized a charity football match that raised £2,000 for Mind, aiming to spark conversations about mental health awareness. The DW Cup event is set to return on May 16, supporting Man Down UK.

Carl Willis, Daniel’s brother, expressed the importance of raising funds for mental health charities, emphasizing the need for men to openly discuss their mental well-being. The charity match will take place at Tavistock Crowndale pitch, with a call for donations to support the cause and encourage participation on May 16.

For those in need of emotional support, the Samaritans helpline is available at 116 123, or via email and online resources.