A brand new memorial and football pitch could soon be built in memory of Darren Graves who died of meningitis six years ago.

Wrecked - only Darren's plaque was left intact after the attack Picture: MAXINE CLARKE

The move comes after vandals demolished the first memorial around the football pitch at Tarpots recreation ground, Church Road, Benfleet.

They smashed a 20 foot section of concrete fencing which led to Darren's parents, Peter and Joan of Overton Close, Benfleet, asking for the remainder to be removed.

Today the council's head of leisure, Chris Moran said a five-a-side pitch in another part of the borough could soon be created.

He said: "We have looked tentatively at the idea of creating a new pitch with a memorial.

"We have had some discussions with Darren's family and we have also spoken with local councillors about the possibility of replacing the pitch."

Darren died in 1998 when he was 16.

Anyone with information about the vandalism is asked to call police on 01268 775533.

Published Thursday August 19, 2004

Brought to you by the Evening Echo