Bench Reveals Luton

March 19th 2025 was a memorable day for Legend on the Bench, we installed 2 more Suicide Prevention Benches in Luton. The installation of two Suicide Prevention Benches, set in such beautiful locations, not only served as a memorial but also as a beacon of hope and understanding for mental health struggles. Both reveals were very well attended with people coming from near and far to share in our quest to save lives.

The installation of the first Bench at Stockwood Park Discovery Centre was a deeply emotional and meaningful event. The presence of the Luton Mayor Tahmina Salem, Dunstable Mayor Louise O’Riordan, Houghton Regis Mayor Elaine Cooper, The Sheriff of Bedfordshire Bhav Shah and Gareth Mackey the chairman of Central Bedfordshire Council, alongside other supporters, truly highlighted the significance of the occasion. The Mayor of Luton’s tribute to her son Adam, whom the bench was dedicated to, was incredibly powerful and moving. Her beautiful words about him, along with her reflections on the benches and their purpose, undoubtedly touched everyone present.

Bhav Shah The Sheriff spoke beautiful words of wisdom about mental health and the cause behind the benches added even more depth to the occasion, making it a moment of both remembrance and support. The Mayor’s thoughtful organisation made this a day to remember, and her personal connection to the cause made the event even more poignant.

1st Bench Reveal unveiled by the Mayor of Luton and Adam’s Family.

The second reveal at Wardown Park, outside Wardown Park Museum, was another incredibly moving moment. The setting was so breathtakingly beautiful, making the occasion even more special. Once again, the Mayor of Luton’s speech added a personal and heartfelt touch, honouring the memory of Lucie Moore and the significance of the benches.

Lucie’s mother Jenny, accompanied by Lucie’s daughter Ruby, was next to speak and shared such beautiful poignant words about Lucie’s legacy, it was deeply emotional for everyone present. The calmness, poise, and pride with which she spoke about her daughter’s life and the impact she left behind left a lasting impression on all those in attendance.

Following that, the priest’s prayer for Lucie was a fitting and deeply reflective way to close the unveiling. It’s clear that both benches weren’t just Suicide Prevention Benches or Memorials - they were moments to honor lives lost and to shine a light on the importance of Suicide Prevention and mental health awareness and support.

2nd Bench Reveal unveiled by Lucie’s Mum Daughter & Family.

It’s clear that the success of the day wouldn’t have been possible without the dedication and hard work of many people. A huge thank you to the Mayor of Luton Tahmina Salem for her time, commitment, and effort in making the event such a meaningful occasion. Her role in organizing the day and ensuring everything ran smoothly, including the wonderful reception afterward, truly made the day unforgettable.

Thank you to Steve Battlesbridge for helping us achieve our aims by playing a big part in getting the approvals to install our Benches in such incredible surroundings.

A special thank you to Annette Cooper and Chimeme Egbutah from Chums Charity for their support on such a significant day. Chums does incredible work in Bedfordshire and Luton, providing much-needed assistance for those struggling with mental health issues. Their efforts to fund vital services through donations are truly commendable, and it’s clear their presence on this day added even more meaning and support to the cause.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who showed up to support this truly meaningful day. Your presence, along with the efforts of the fundraisers and donors, is what makes all of this possible. Together, we are not only honoring memories but also saving lives and bringing much-needed awareness to mental health. The collective dedication and compassion from everyone involved is both inspiring and powerful. 💙🙏

“The Greatest People are the people that make time to help others despite having to deal with their own problems at the same time.”