Community bike track in Vicars Cross built in memory of Christleton High School pupil is officially opened by the Duke of Westminster

Mar 11 2010 by Paul Mannion, Chester Chronicle

Community bike track in Vicars Cross built in memory of Christleton High School pupil is officially opened by the Duke of Westminster

A BIKE track built in memory of a Chester schoolboy killed in a collision was launched by The Duke of Westminster yesterday..

The Queens Road community track in Vicars Cross – called Josh’s Jumps – was built in memory of 12-year-old Christleton High School student Josh Easton died in October 2008 as a fitting memorial to the talented cyclist.

Josh’s mum Jo Easton, 39, of Oldfield Drive, Vicars Cross said: “He loved being out on his bike with friends, and so to be able to provide the young people of the area a safe and fun place to enjoy while having fun on their bikes will be a fitting tribute and memorial to our son.”

After the Duke of Westminster Gerald Grosvenor officially declared the site open, a team of BMX riders took to the track to show off their skills, followed by Josh’s friends and family.

“I was delighted to be able to help”, said the Duke, who’s charitable trust donated £5,000 to the project.

“We have all been bowled over by the selfless and considerate way Steve and Jo have reacted to their tragedy.

“The support they have been given by their community and the local authority has been tremendous.

“I sincerely hope that the track will be well used and respected by everyone and that it will provide a lasting and fitting tribute to Josh’s memory.”

Jo and husband Steve approached Great Boughton Parish Council with their idea shortly after Josh’s death and by the summer Josh’s Project Committee was formed – comprised of family, friends, and representatives of the parish council, Cheshire West and Chester Council, the police, Connexions and Square One Youth Club – with the target of raising £37,000 for the track.