“We were all in complete shock”: Young Milton Keynes father passes away in sleep aged 21

A family’s life was turned upside down when Alfie Bowditch-Smith passed away in his sleep at just 21-years-old, on July 28.

So far, an autopsy has found no definitive cause of death, with further tests to be expected at a later date.

Alfie leaves behind his five-year-old son, Hudson, who he co-parented closely with Hudson's mum, and the pair remained best friends throughout.

Alfie’s cousin Jay Smith said: “Honestly, we were all in complete shock. Alfie was healthy, well and had so many plans for his future. His death was something we didn't even think possible this early in his life.

“It is still incredibly hard to believe he is gone. Alf had the biggest heart and always knew how to make everyone laugh.”

Alfie was playfully called Risky by his friends and family, for his cheeky, playful and risk-taking nature. He was also known for making everyone laugh, brightening up even the darkest of days.

Jay added: “He truly had a heart of gold and loved those close to him like no other. He was incredibly loyal and would walk to the ends of the earth to help those he loved and cared for. He was a wonderful father to Hudson.”

Alfie’s family want to give him “the send-off he truly deserves”, but are struggling to cover the funeral expenses to do this. So Jay has set up a fundraiser to put towards funeral costs. The fundraiser has raised £5,025 so far, with a target of £6,500.

Jay said: “We all would love to give Alfie the send off he deserves and as we are a low income family, we unfortunately are not able to fund that ourselves.

“He was completely cherished and we want his funeral to reflect that, particularly as he left this world so young. Support from the public would be an incredible blessing to our family.”

You can show your support and donate towards the funeral at Alfie’s fundraising page. The page also encourages those who knew Alfie to share their favourite memory of him.