Thousands of children are set to enjoy a new boat-themed play area that honours the memory of a much-loved five-year-old boy.
A "lasting legacy" remembering Harry Elmy, who died suddenly just over two years ago, has been unveiled at his former primary school in Lowestoft.
After an online appeal was launched and a series of events were held, the "incredible fundraising efforts and generous donations" have been praised as a new activity area was unveiled.
Harry's parents Jamie Elmy and Clare Turrell had teamed up with Gunton Primary Academy in Lowestoft - where he had been a pupil in reception class - to raise funds for the memorial boat themed play area.
After the five-year-old - who was "very fond of spending time watching his dad on his powerboat" - had died suddenly on May 23, 2022, Harry's Boat memorial was launched ahead of the anniversary of the youngster's death.
With backing from parents, families, friends, the community and local businesses, a huge swell of support saw the original goal of raising £15,000 being smashed - leading to a new larger piece of play equipment being installed in the school grounds.
Created for pupils of all ages to remember the youngster, an official opening of the "amazing" memorial play boat was held at the primary school on Gainsborough Drive, Lowestoft on June 7.
'A fitting tribute'
Speaking at the opening of Harry's Boat, Kirsten Stone, headteacher of Gunton Primary Academy thanked everyone for attending the official launch.
Mrs Stone said: "Harry was a much-loved member of our Reception Class.
"Most importantly, we’d like to thank Clare Turrell, Harry’s mum and her parents for joining us.
"When thinking about what sort of memorial would be a fitting tribute to Harry, the idea of a boat seemed an obvious choice.
"Going powerboating with his dad was something Harry loved to do.
"We’re sure that all the children will enjoy playing on this boat and, for Harry’s friends, hopefully it’s a positive way to remember him."
'Harry’s Boat will give hours and hours of fun'
Admitting it was "a mammoth task," to raise the money, Mrs Stone thanked Tiffany Richardson - the former School Business Manager, who now works for the Shared Services of Reach2 - for her "huge" efforts in liaising with businesses and organisations to secure grants and donations, along with the help of Rebecca Newrick, Zoe Leech and Emma Forsdicke at the school.
Mrs Stone added: "The response of the family and family friends of Harry has been amazing, the support of the powerboating community touching and the generosity of our children and families through the PSFA has been greatly appreciated.
"Community groups, politicians and local businesses have also been incredibly supportive and kind in supporting this project to create a lasting legacy for Harry.
"We know Harry’s Boat will give hours and hours of fun and adventure to literally thousands of children in years to come, which is a positive way to remember Harry at Gunton."
Main sources of contributions towards Harry's Boat
Among the contributors towards the fundraising were Gunton Primary Academy PSFA, the online Crowdfunder appeal - entitled Harry's Memorial Fundraiser, Birds Eye, a colour run - with donations from families, Westwood and Grove Primary schools, Chris and Cathy Songer, Harry's family and family friends, Lowestoft Town Council, Persimmon Homes, TeachWell Supply Agency and Gunton Woodland Association.
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