Community spirit will always win out against cruelty

What should have been a time of togetherness and reflection for Owen’s loved ones as they prepared to mark the first anniversary of the teenager’s tragic death was undoubtedly marred by the cruel theft.

Living with grief, especially around anniversaries, birthdays and special occasions, can be difficult enough without being caused further - and completely unnecessary - distress.

Whatever reason those responsible had for stealing from Owen’s memorial garden is not good enough, there is simply no excuse.

But out of darkness and upset sometimes comes light, and that has definitely been the case - thanks to Roy Squires - along with a team of kind-hearted fundraisers.

Roy, who created the stolen bench from scaffolding boards, refused to let the thieves’ actions win, and instead has already set about finding the materials to replace the bench.

And others have already offered to help.

Of course they have.

This is, after all, the same community which has involved themselves in, or donated to, a month of fundraising challenges, resulting in £70,000 being raised for the Parents Association of Children with Tumours and Leukaemia in Owen’s name.

This is the sort of behaviour that improves and enriches communities, and restores your faith in humanity, instead of being a stain on it.

While there is a time and a place for anger, helping others by doing something constructive and altruistic like Roy and those wonderful fundraisers, is certainly a great way of channelling such feelings.

I really hope it provides some comfort to Owen’s loved ones to know that they are surrounded and supported by a community that has proven to be so kind-hearted and considerate.

And I think it should act as a lesson for us all: when faced with cruelty, don’t let it win.

Do something constructive instead, and be more Roy.