THE legacy of a man described as the 'heartbeat of his family' will live on, thanks to a new campaign.

Ryan Kirkpatrick 24, died on September 18 but one of his best friends Hannah Green hopes a new initiative will not only raise awareness of the dangers of knife crime, but also raise vital funds to support his grieving family.

Hannah was left heartbroken when she found out he had died. She said: "We used to go to the gym together. He was so polite and always had a smile on his face."

She has now set up a GoFundMe page in his memory. She said: "He was a beautiful, caring vibrant soul who in the prime of his life was so cruelly taken away from his loved ones.

"All we ask is a small donation to support the family in their grief, let them know we stand shoulder-to-shoulder, and help give Ryan the send off he deserves. Perhaps create a nice memorial or anything to be a small help in their grief in this heartbreaking time."

She also hope that this money would be able to help raise awareness of knife crime and stop something like this happening again.

Hannah, 28 from Harraby, said: "Ryan had a smile which could make your worst days better. He was always so happy and positive and had lots of energy which was contagious.

"He loved going to the gym and improving himself and encouraging his friends to do the same, everywhere he went he went with a huge smile.

"All the children in Ryan’s life looked up to him he always spent lots of time playing games and having fun with them, he really had a heart of gold.

"He was well known in the community for his polite manners and would always go out of his way to speak to and help others.

"Ryan will be missed everyday. He was fiercely loyal to his friends and the heartbeat of his family."

Ryan's funeral service will be held at St Elisabeth’s Church, Harraby, Carlisle on Tuesday October 12.

To see the GoFundMe click here.