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World heavyweight boxing champ Tyson Fury has joined in the tributes following the death of Sheppey rugby player Connor Russon.
Connor, a former pupil of Fulston Manor School, Sittingbourne, was found dead at his home in Rodmer Close, Minster, Sheppey.
In a video message posted on Connor’s Facebook page Fury, known as the Gypsy King, said: “This is a special message for Connor. Rest in peace Connor. Thoughts and prayers and condolences to your family. All the best, God bless.”
Friends released Chinese lanterns into the sky as a mark of respect to the house music-loving Islander described as the “life and soul of any party”.
A Just Giving page has been set up to raise £10,000 in memory of the 26-year-old following his death last month. It has already raised more than £5,000.
Its creator Josh Betts, one of Connor's best friends, said: “Connor was meant to climb Mount Snowdon in June. He was buzzing for it. He couldn’t wait.
“We decided to raise money for MIND, the mental health charity, long before we heard the news but now it is fitting that we honour this in his memory.”
He has appealed to everyone fit, willing and able to climb the mountain to “get yourself up it.”
He added: “I’ve set the target at £10,000. He always used to say ‘I just need about 10 grand - that would sort me right out.’”
Connor played for Sheppey Rugby Club and was also keen on boxing, often cheering on his pal Martin McDonagh.
Coroner Katrina Hepburn opened an inquest at Sessions House, Maidstone, last week.
She heard that Connor was found by his mother Clare at 8.30am on Wednesday, February 24.
The inquest was adjourned to May 11 at Archbishops Palace, Maidstone, while more investigations are carried out.
Connor’s father Chris said the family was still too shocked to comment.
To contribute to the Just Giving page visit https://tinyurl.com/ConnorSnowdon
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