Keith Lemon has hit out at a company who he claims is selling fake versions of Caroline Flack charity t-shirts online.
The comedian – real name Leigh Francis – has accused one company in particular for allegedly “ripping off” the design he made to support The Samaritans.
The actor took to Instagram to warn buyers of the supposedly fake items and urges websites remove the fakes to make sure as much money as possible goes to charity.
Keith has since shared video posts with his 1.5million Instagram followers as he strongly rallied for people not to buy the replicas.
(Image: Instagram)
In one video, he said: “Thanks so much to everyone who’s bought a t-shirt for Be Kind.
“Unfortunately, there’s a website … that’s ripped off the design and unless they’re going to give that money to the Samaritans, then they’ve stolen my design and taken that money that would’ve gone to the Samaritans.”
The comedian then shared another video post saying the company had removed the fakes, and thanked them for doing so.
The retailer has since apologised and said their designs are created by “independent individuals”.
(Image: keithlemon/Instagram)
The website also said the user’s account has been “disabled” after they claim to condemn this behaviour.
So far, more than 11,000 of Keith Lemon’s legitimate tribute T-shirts have been sold online.
Keith marked the tragic loss of his pal by creating the design which features a picture of Caroline alongside the words ‘Be Kind’.
The slogan refers to a meme Caroline had shared on Instagram, which read: “In a world where you can be anything, be kind.”
(Image: Instagram)
Former Love Island host Caroline was found dead at her home on February 15th after taking her own life. She was just 40 years old.
In a bid to carry on her legacy, Keith took to Instagram to reveal his T-shirt design.
Sharing a picture of himself wearing one, he wrote: “Like everyone I was absolutely shocked by the news of what happened to Caroline. All the recent events just seemed so unreal.
“I’d been friends with Caroline for many years. Since before telly happened. In more recent times I’d not seen Caroline as much as I had years ago, but it was always like old times when I saw her.”
(Image: Getty Images)
He added: “I did this t-shirt to spread Caroline’s own words #Bekind, and to raise money for the Samaritans. 100% of profits will go to @samaritanscharity and the link is in my bio or tap the pic.
“For more information on the amazing work the Samaritans do, or if you are looking for any support, please go to samaritans.org or call them directly on 116 123. Will miss you Flack. Love to your family x.”
Keith also shared a video of himself dressed in the garment.
(Image: Instagram)
Speaking to the camera, he told fans: “Be kind, it’s easy, innit? Just be kind. This T-shirt is out now. All proceeds go to the Samaritans.”
He captioned the post: “#bekind Fanks to everyone that’s ordered one of these. If you haven’t ordered one and ya want to it’s available at www.kilclothes.com 100% profits go to Samaritans. All t’ best x”
* Samaritans (116 123) operates a 24-hour service available every day of the year. If you prefer to write down how you’re feeling, or if you’re worried about being overheard on the phone, you can email Samaritans at jo@samaritans.org
