Family and friends of Josh Hall – who was stabbed at Cam Sports Ground two years ago in an incident which left the entire community in shock – have issued a call to raise £40,000 for a memorial shelter as a permanent tribute.
They also hope the shelter will act as a focal point to help spread the anti-knife crime message following the Rednock School pupil’s death on April 16, 2021.
This Saturday, the community will come together at the second annual Skate4Josh scooter event.
An audio group called Aurora Theatre will be there to record memories of Josh.
Recordings will eventually be available to hear via a QR code at the shelter so future generations can remember him.
Meanwhile, the shelter itself will be designed by young people in Cam and Dursley with the support of a designer.
Organiser Abi Nicol is working with Josh’s mum Kirsty on the project and it is hoped young people in the area will continue to discuss issues surrounding knife crime.
“We want to help young people understand that you don’t need to carry a knife,” said Abi.
“The consequences, as we have seen within our community, are devastating and this must never happen again.
“I am incredibly proud of Josh’s friends who are so passionate about creating a legacy for their friend.
“After talking to many local teenagers we have heard how they want to create a legacy piece to mark Josh’s life but wanted something they could use, not a shrine, and we think their idea to create a shelter is fantastic.
“We will be launching the Shelter4Josh project at Saturday’s event.
“This legacy piece will be designed by young people with the support of a designer and will be permanently sited at the Jubilee play area for the whole community to use.
“Josh’s mum Kirsty who is supporting the project wants young people to have a chance to discuss the issues around knife crime in a supportive and creative way.
“Having something designed by young people is so fitting, Josh would have loved it.
“We are applying for grants to help us fund this positive project but if anyone can help us we would love to hear from you.”
The Skate4Josh scooter competition takes place at the Jubilee Playing Fields from 3pm to 7pm on Saturday.
It is aimed at those aged between 10 and 20.
All abilities are welcome to take part although participants must bring their own safety gear.
You can donate to the Josh Hall Shelter Memorial here
