Delamere CE Primary School celebrates opening of a new play area in memory of a former pupil

Jul 8 2010 by Jo Henwood, Chester Chronicle

Delamere CE Primary School celebrates opening of a new play area in memory of a former pupil

CHILDREN at a country school have created a garden in memory of one of their classmates.

Delamere CE Primary School pupils’ new play area is called Grandma’s House, built in memory of Lydia Wilson, who died in 2009 of a brain tumour. Lydia’s twin sister, Naomi, is still at the school.

Centrepiece of the design is a large house painted pink, Lydia’s favourite colour.

Grandma’s House was built by parent Geoff Woodward with £2,000 raised by the PTA from singing events and an Easter fair.

Headteacher Steve Docking said: “The garden is for all the children to play in and was built to encourage imaginative play.”

Steve himself is in training for the Thee Peaks Challenge in July to raise funds for Claire House Hospice, where Lydia spent much of her time.

He added: “Lydia was an exceptional pupil. She started with us in September 2007 with her twin sister Naomi. Tragically, Lydia was diagnosed with an astrocytoma, a brain tumour, which ultimately cost her young life.

“Lydia battled the tumour for the best part of two years and in her time at school she was loved by all and brought us a great many fond memories.

“The support from Claire House was immeasurable for both Lydia and her family.”

To start the fundraising ball rolling the group organised a football tournament earlier this month at Cheshire County Sports Club in Upton.

The seven-a-side tournament, with 16 teams, was won by ‘The 6-45 Boys' who were presented with the winners’ charity cup.

To support Steve visit www.justgiving.com/GSThreePeaks.