More on KentOnline
More on KentOnline
The funeral of Love Island star and Kent footballer Mike Thalassitis is taking place in London today.
Family, friends and fellow Love Island contestants are paying their respects at a ceremony in the capital after his death last month.
The 26-year-old's body was found in woodland in north London after battling with depression in the months leading up to his death.
Contestants who appeared with Mike on the ITV show in 2017 including winner Amber Davies, Camilla Thurlow, Jamie Jewitt and Jonny Mitchell and the show's host Caroline Flack were all at the service in Southgate, north London.
The reality TV contestant, who played football for a host of Kent clubs including Margate and Ebbsfleet, was found hanged in woodland near Edmonton on March 15.
Loved ones carried his coffin into the church and the order of service contained baby pictures with music from Phil Collins, Cat Stevens and Coldplay, The Mirror reports.
His death has prompted ITV to review its aftercare policy for reality contestants on its shows.
Stars hit out at the channel for failing to protect those who struggle to cope after becoming famous overnight.
Jonny Mitchell, who appeared alongside Mike in the series, launched a petition urging TV bosses to improve its support for contestants.
Many others have paid tribute to Mike including Steve Brown who signed Mike when he was manager at Ebbsfleet United and says he was a great footballer, but above all a great person.
On Saturday, Fleet held a minute's applause for Mike before their game with Wrexham.
The Health Secretary Matt Hancock has also called for more support to be offered to reality TV stars when they leave shows.
If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this article, you can contact the Samaritans helpline 24 hours a day on 116 123.
Kent County Council's Release the Pressure campaign can also offer support - call 0800 1070160 or visit releasethepressure.uk for more information.
