A reality TV star is demanding ITV provides better care to Love Island contestants after the death of Michael Thalassitis.

Jonny Mitchell, who appeared on the same series of the show with Mike in 2017, has set up a petition addressed to ITV asking the channel to give more support to reality stars.

It comes after ex-Margate and Ebbsfleet United footballer Mr Thalassitis was found dead in woods at the weekend.

The change.org petition pays touching tribute to Mr Thalassitis.

Calling him one of his best friends, Mr Mitchell said: " I always looked up to him - he was so full of positivity and charisma.

"When I found out this weekend that he had taken his own life I was utterly heartbroken."

Many others have paid tribute to Mr Thalassitis 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.

The Health Secretary Matt Hancock has also called for more support to be offered to reality TV stars when they leave shows.

Mr Mitchell said: "In the space of a year, two Love Island contestants have been in such a dark place that they’ve felt it necessary to take their own lives.

"Aside from that I know many, many more people who have also struggled with depression following on from the show."

This refers to the death of Sophie Gradon, in June last year.

He added: "I think it’s time to wake up and see that the way this industry operates is toxic and it costs lives."

These reality shows need to be held accountable for the way they operate and for falsely over-glamourising something to make it more appealing to kids who don’t know any better.

"They are not providing a clear enough picture of the risks involved."

To sign the petition click here .