£70,000 raised in memory of talented University of York student found dead in River Thames

Harvey Parker’s friends and family set up the fundraiser to help "people like Harvey", such as musicians from under-represented communities and groups of young people who could benefit from mental health support.

The 20-year-old music student’s body was recovered from the River Thames near Westminster by police divers on Thursday, January 6.

He had been missing since Friday, December 17, when he was last seen leaving Heaven Nightclub near Charing Cross Railway Station in Westminster at around 2.15am.

The Metropolitan Police said his death is being treated as unexplained.

The fundraising page states: “We would like to raise funds for people like Harvey: money raised will go to young queer support groups, neurodiverse and gender-diverse young people who would benefit from emotional or mental health support, and help support talented musicians from under-represented communities.

“We want to send our thanks to everyone who can help us to support these causes, as a way to not only celebrate Harvey's life but to keep the memory of our beautiful Harvey alive.”

More than £69,000 has been raised so far.

In a tribute released after his death, the University of York said he was a dedicated student who was known for “his wonderful flute playing and all-round musicianship”.