You share their grief
Published Date:
14 December 2007
An outpouring of grief has followed the deaths of teenagers Shaun Barnes and Luther Storr, and there is a determination to ensure their memories live on.
Plans are already under way to get a memorial bench installed on the Millennium Green in Watlington and buy football cups in memory of Shaun, who played in the past for teams in West Winch, Watlington and South Lynn.
Shaun's mum Lynne Lasenby and husband Dave, of Wensum Close, have been deeply touched by the community spirit surrounding them.
Watlington Post Office and store owner Jim Bhondi has pledged one of the monthly shop collections he runs for local good causes in the boys' memories.
And villager Carl Green, of haulage firm GE/BE Transport, has been in touch with business colleagues to get a memorial fund underway.
Mr Green, who has children at Shaun's former school, Downham High, and has long known Shaun's family, said: "Everyone just wants to do something."
Mrs Lasenby is keen for a memorial bench to be put in place in the village to discourage youngsters from their usual hang-out spot at Watlington Station.
She said: "I imagine them all saying: 'Meet you at Barnsey's bench in half-an-hour'."
Since news of the deaths, internet websites and chatrooms, including the Lynn News website and Bebo, have filled with messages from young friends.
One of Shaun's closest friends Danny Marsh said: "RIP Barnsey my beautiful angel. I love you more than you can imagine. Love, your best mate Danny Marsh."
Mrs Lasenby said it was Danny who first approached her with the idea of placing tributes at Watlington Station.
Now the station fences are covered in tributes to the boys. A tin of Shaun's favourite baked beans, biscuits and milk have even been placed there.
Mr and Mrs Lasenby are both visiting the station daily to feel close to Shaun and read the tributes. Mrs Lasenby said: "It's lovely, but breaks your heart."
The full article contains 329 words and appears in Lynn News Friday newspaper.
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Last Updated:
14 December 2007 9:54 AM
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Source:
Lynn News Friday
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Location:
King's Lynn