03 February 2024 , 15:26
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Tributes have been paid to a 'gentle giant' photographer tragically died after suffering a seizure in his sleep as pals now vow to raise money running in their Speedos.
Talented snapped Matthew Lofthouse sadly passed away in October 2023 after the seizure with the exact cause of his death still being probed. The 29-year-old from Greater Manchester was training to be a clinical photographer at the time and had previously appeared on BBC Breakfast red sofa to inspire others with autism to get into the hobby.
Matthew had worked as a sports photographer at university and then as a photojournalist, snapping pictures for national newspapers and for football teams. After his sudden death, many have rallied together to raise money for causes close to his heart, with his best friend Conner McParland leading the charge by donning just a pair of tight Speedos and running around Ashton-under-Lyne and Mossley.
Running five miles daily in honour of Matthew, a group of Conner's dedicated friends have been taking part in the challenge, clothed or not. To celebrate running their 400th mile in Matthew's honour, they organised a massive group run in their Speedos, across the very countryside that first sparked Matthew's passion for photography.
As a young lad, Matthew was very curious, had a fondness for history books but struggled academically because he was diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome. His determined spirit led him to gain a First Class Honour's degree in Photojournalism in 2020.
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Matthew's friends have been honouring his memory with a run in Speedos following his shock death last month (Conner McParland)Matthew didn't stop at triumphant graduation, powering on towards a successful career in photojournalism, Manchester Evening News reports. His images were featured in various news outlets such as Daily Telegraph, The Times, Daily Mail, The Sun, The Daily Star, L'Equipe and BBC News.
He also made it as a finalist in a 'Photographer of the Year' contest. Matthew's brother Thomas Lofthouse said: "Matthew would apply his incredible gift to every endeavour he set out to achieve."
"The resilience and hard work he showed to overcome so many barriers and difficulties to achieve such remarkable success both academically and as a gifted photographer was truly inspiring, all whilst being the kindest, most genuine, selfless person who would make a special effort for everyone he knew or met."
"He loved his friends and family deeply, as we loved him. I will miss him so much and will ensure that his memory lives on through his niece and nephews who absolutely adored their giant uncle Matty"
His best friend, Conner McParland, who decided to do a nearly-naked run in his honour, said: "The Speedo run was put in place to honour Matthew and do something out of the ordinary, as Matthew was not an ordinary man. He was a talented and gifted photographer and a wonderful human being, alongside all the charity work he did, he was working for the NHS taking photos for medical purposes."
"He always helped others in any way he could, so we are doing the same, raising money for Autism Awareness and The Albion Church In Ashton." As well as the nearly-naked run, a charity boxing match is also planned for March to raise funds for Autism Awareness. You can find the GoFundMe for Matthew Lofthouse here.
* An AI tool was used to add an extra layer to the editing process for this story. You can report any errors to [email protected]