Fundraising night in honour of hit-and-run victim

A year on from the tragedy which claimed the life of Lewis Knapp, his family and friends are to come together to celebrate his life in aid of RoadPeace North East.

The fundraising night will take place at the Hedworth Hall on Saturday and will be led by former TV presenter and Lewis’ cousin Lisa Brash.

Lisa said: “It is going to be such an emotional night but I know we will all come together to make our Lewi proud.

“They’ll be lots going on, auctions, raffles and a disco. Everyone has been so supportive.

“Losing our Lewi has hit us all hard and there’s not a day goes by when we don’t think about him.

“RoadPeace has been such a help for our family and we wanted to give something back to show how appreciative we are for all their support.”

Lewis, from Boldon Colliery, was making his way home from a nightclub on Good Friday last year with friends when he was struck by a Vauxhall Vectra car driven by Connor Emms. He was just 20.

Emms, 21, was jailed for four-and-a-half years at Newcastle Crown Court in January after admitting causing death by dangerous driving, drug driving, failing to stop after an accident, having no insurance and driving otherwise than in accordance with a licence.

As well as raising cash for charity, a portion of the money will also go towards fulfilling Lewi’s dream of taking his girlfriend Caitlyn Hardy to Florida.

He had been hoping to whisk Caitlyn to Florida where he was planning to propose.

Now, Caitlyn who will be joined by his mum Michelle Norton, will take the trip where they will scatter his ashes.

Lisa added: “Lewis loved Florida and he always talked about taking Caitlyn there. That’s where he was going to propose.

“We are hoping to help raise the money so that we can make his dream come true and to send Caitlyn to Florida where she will scatter his ashes - it’s just so sad.”

Doors to the night will open at 6pm.