TRIBUTE TO GEORGE MY BEAUTIFUL SON My Son George was killed on 10th October 2008 in collision with a car whilst crossing the road at traffic lights to catch the last bus home with his 15 year old brother and their friends. He was 17 and due to go on holiday to Greece the next day with his girlfriend Sam’s family to celebrate her 16th birthday on 20th October. Sadly Sam attended his funeral instead. My last words to him were,’ Don’t be too late back because you’ve still got your packing to do – if you want me to pick you up I will’ He said, ‘No I’ll be OK getting the bus – there’s a few of us’ Of course I’ll never forgive myself up for not going. George was the life and soul of the party, he didn’t (and no one does) deserve to die so young. School wasn’t his happiest time but he had blossomed since working as an apprentice joiner and was enjoying life to the full. He was due to take his driving test on 7th November and couldn’t wait to drive his first car –he had saved up £1500, even though we told him it would be cheaper using taxis! He was a massive Everton Fan and had played for local team Rainford Rangers for the best part of 8 years. I still cannot take it all in – when I read about his death now, it’s as if it’s someone else, even though I’ve seen his body and buried his ashes. It’s the worst thing that could ever happen to anyone. I ache every second of every day to see him again, the pain is unbearable, the tears come and go, but I have to be strong for my other son whose world has been turned upside down – they were so close. George will always be 17 – he’ll never grow up and be a Dad, and that’s one of the tragedies because he would have been a fantastic one. All his friends are having their 18th’s – it’s so difficult to enjoy anything any more. We have started a campaign for controlled pedestrian crossings to be installed at the junction where he died as I believe that if these had been in place (together with lower speed limits) he would still be here today. We are still waiting for the inquest date (due to staff shortages in the Coroners Office) but the Coroner has stated that he is in full support of any improvements bearing in mind the previous incidents there and the council should act sooner rather than wait for the inquest. I urge anyone reading this to please please pledge your support on line www.windleislandcampaign.org.uk George my love, hold me, hold me tight Help me make it through the night And endless days that stretch ahead. How can I face the future without dread Of knowing you’re not with me here, Just makes me want to shed a tear I will see you again, I know I will Your beautiful smile reassures me still. Missing you now more than ever – please send Bob or Sam or me a sign that you’re OK Lots and lots and lots of love always Your heartbroken Mum