Vandals have demolished part of a football pitch created in memory of Darren Graves, who died of meningitis six years ago.

Disgrace - the football pitch for Darren Graves has been wrecked Picture: MAXINE CLARKE

A 20ft section of the concrete fencing surrounding the football pitch at Tarpots recreation ground, in Church Road, Benfleet, was destroyed by youths armed with a scaffolding pole at 7pm on Wednesday night.

Now Darren's parents Peter and Joan, of Overton Close, Benfleet, have asked for the remainder of the concrete to be removed.

Darren died in 1998 when he was 16.

He had visited the doctor and his condition was diagnosed as a bad case of 'flu. Just 12 hours later he was dead.

About a year later the family, including siblings Julie and Steven, had raised £15,000 for the memorial football pitch, backed by Castle Point Council.

Even though cash was spent on improving the security around the site, it has been a regular target for vandals.

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

Published Friday July 23, 2004

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