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Oak bench in memory of Becky Watts
A memorial bench for murdered teenager Becky Watts has been placed in a park near her home two days before the anniversary of her death.
Family gathered for the official unveiling of the carved oak seat in Plummers Hill Open Space, just off Crown Hill, where Becky, 16, lived with her father and step-mother.
Father Darren Galsworthy (pictured top right) said the bench was a fitting tribute to his daughter who used to play in the park throughout the year.
“If Becky was here, she wouldn’t let anyone sit on it,” he joked with wife Anjie (pictured top left) by his side after a sheet was lifted to unveil the memorial.
He added that the bench, organised by the council, showed how much support the family had received from Bristol.
“I never would have thought all the things that have happened since her death would come about, but it’s incredible all that we have received.
“It’s helped us a lot. We are never going to get her back, but things like this, it does let you know that so many people are behind you.”
The bench was designed and built by wood carver Andy O’Neill, who worked with the family to carve angels wings, unicorns and dogs – all things that Becky loved, her family said.
Made from a single piece of oak from a tree which fell in Sea Mills, the bench took five days to be carved where it is now located.
Becky was killed in her home by her step-brother Nathan Matthews in a botched kidnap on February 19 last year. Matthews and his girlfriend Shauna Hoare were both jailed over her murder.
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