Frustration at wait for memorial bench (From Harwich and Manningtree Standard)

Frustration at wait for memorial bench

12:00pm Monday 4th February 2013 in News

A FAMILY has spoken of their frustrated after months of waiting for a memorial bench in honour of chip shop owner Kieron Mealing.

Kelly Darling, of Barrack Lane, Dovercourt invited friends and loved ones to donate towards a bench on the town's seafront after the death of her father in January last year.

But since applying for one seven months ago she has only managed to get her name on a waiting list.

"It is very frustrating," Mrs Darling added. "They said they didn't know when we could get a bench.

"It's embarassing because people gave their money.

“I want them to know I am still persuing it and will persist in getting dad his bench to mark his life and remember him for the great inspirational person he once was."

Nick Turner, Tendring Council’s cabinet member for environment and coast protection, apologised for the length of time that Mrs Darling has had to wait for a site for a bench but said there is a long waiting list.