Charity run tribute for 'gentle giant'

Talented photographer died in his sleep

- WILLIAM MORGAN

A TALENTED sports photographer who died last month has been honoured and remembered by friends and family, who are raising money in his name by running the streets of Greater Manchester, sometimes wearing only Speedos.

Matthew Lofthouse, 29, passed away following a seizure in his sleep at the start of 2024 after a rapid rise to the top of his profession, snapping pictures for national newspapers, football teams, and even appearing on the BBC Breakfast red sofa to inspire others with autism into photography.

Described as a "gentle giant" by friends and family, after his shock death, many have rallied together to raise money for causes close to his heart.

Best friend Conner McParland has taken up the challenge of honouring his friend in the way only a best friend could, by doing something incredibly silly. So, quashing any embarrassment, he and a group of others have started donning just a pair of tight Speedos and running around the roads of Ashtonunder-Lyne and Mossley to raise money for causes close to their friend's heart.