THE family and close friends of murder victim Henry Nowak came together in the week to join members of his former school community and local residents at the unveiling of a bench and garden dedicated to his memory.

They gathered at Harris Academy in Chafford Hundred for the special and emotional occasion. Borough Mayor Cllr William Cook was among those who attended.

Henry, who was a much-loved and model student at the academy, died just before Christmas last year after being stabbed in Southampton where he was a university student.

Staff from Harris Academy, Chafford Hundred, joined in the applause for Henry.

Several memorial events have taken place in Southampton and across Thurrock, including a football match and a fun run in Grays but this was a chance for him to be honoured at his former school.

The memorial was made possible thanks to the efforts of Fiona Holgate, who organised the fundraising and arrangements. Funds were raised through a CRG Summer Charity Dance Competition, alongside generous donations from her friends and family.

She said: "Their kindness and support helped create a beautiful and lasting tribute to Henry."

Father Stephen from St Thomas' Church and Mayor Cllr Bill Cook attended.

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Heartfelt speeches were given by Mr Jamie Maxted, Headteacher of Harris Academy, and Father Stephen Myers from St Thomas of Canterbury Church in Grays, who shared words of remembrance and reflection in honour of Henry.

Created as a lasting tribute to Henry, the bench and garden provide a peaceful place for pupils, staff, friends and visitors to pause, rest and remember a young man whose life touched so many.

Next month Henry's killer, Vickrum Digwa, will find out if his 21 year jail sentence is to change, pending his own appeal to cut it and a counterclaim by Solicitor General Ellie Reeves, who believes the sentence is 'unduly lenient'.