Uncertainty over boys tribute 'some find distressing'
- Published
A council has suggested it could replace a tribute to four boys who died after falling through frozen ice.
Brothers Samuel and Finlay Butler, six and eight, died along with their cousin Thomas Stewart, 11, and Jack Johnson, 10, at Babbs Mill parkland in Kingshurst, Solihull, in December 2022.
The nearby area has become a permanent shrine to the youngsters, with a spray-painted mural showing their likenesses and a wooden plaque reading: "Lost but not forgotten."
A Solihull Council spokesperson said the authority would place a bench at the location this spring, but added bosses were conscious some people found the image "distressing".
Jessie Village, who runs a popular Facebook page on the area, external, said she had been asked by a family member of one of the boys to post a poll seeking feedback.
She claimed the council had fallen victim to confusion and misunderstanding, adding it was not the case the community wanted the picture replaced.
About 3,000 people - 97% of those who completed the survey - voted "no" when asked if they wanted the memorial taken away, she said.
Ms Village added: "We believe [a decision] is 100% down to the family and only the family.
"[But] the council are saying the community has 'agreed' to the removal. This is just a quick poll to show we are not in agreement."
The piece was created by individuals who had received housing and employment support from a local community group, and was praised by bereaved relatives when unveiled last year.
Beneath it there are four stars in block paving to represent each boy.
Lasting tribute
A council spokesperson said the authority had met with local community leaders to understand what residents would like to see as a lasting tribute.
The bench would be put in place this spring, with bosses working with The Heart of England Community Foundation to establish a fund to commission a new piece of artwork, they added.
BBC News understands no decision has been made over the spray-painted mural and discussions will continue over plans for the site.
"It has always been our intention to support the local community in providing a fitting and permanent memorial to the boys," a council statement read.
"We appreciate local residents will want to pay their own tributes but are conscious that the picture in question has generated strong views, including from some people who have told us they find the image distressing."
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