A FOUNDATION established in memory of a teenager who died in a skiing accident has handed over more than £50,000 to good causes.

Louis Ross was just 17-years-old when he died in a pre-Christmas trip to Meribel with a friend's family.

His devastated family and friends have since set up the Louis Ross Foundation and have raised and distributed tens of thousands of pounds.

Donations include £15,000 to Sleepsafe, which offers support and bed spaces to people sleeping rough on the streets of Bournemouth in the winter.

Poole Young Carers have received £4,000, £5,000 has been given to Beaucroft Special School and Mosaic, a charity which helps the bereaved, has received £2,000.

Langside School has received £2,880, Horserenity was given £2,000 and Stanley's Hydro House received £1,500.

Others to receive donations include The Elizabeth Foundation, Make a Wish, Wimborne Wagtails, Ashley's Birthday Bank, The Bus Shelter Dorset, Diverse Abilities, Downton 4 Family, Fernheath Play and Beaucroft School Sixteen Plus.

Louis, a former pupil of Canford School, died after he struck a safety fence and was catapulted over the top. His safety helmet was broken and he suffered fatal head injuries.

His parents, Penny and John, said Louis always wanted to help other people and the foundation carefully selects recipients of donations to ensure they go to those most in need.

In their foundation's latest newsletter they said:"What an achievement and thanks to those who generously support the foundation or put themselves out in some way to raise funds to help others.

"This demonstrates the power of kindness. Charitable giving and fund raising means we can respond to the needs of those in difficulty and pass the kindness on."