Family overwhelmed as hub named in memory of boy

Amy and Julie Longstaff said the hub would help keep the memories of Thomas alive

The family of a 17-year-old who was stabbed to death say they are overwhelmed that a new community hub has been named after him.

Thomas Taylor died after being stabbed in Greenhill Street, Bedford, on 8 January following a fight between two rival groups.

The hub has been named after him at his former school, King's Oak Primary, which hopes it will be a safe space where people can access support.

Julie Longstaff, Thomas's grandmother, said: "We all discussed it as a family and thought it was amazing, and we were overwhelmed by it [keeping] his name alive."

Thomas was described by his grandmother as a "charming young man" and "the joker" out of his friends.

The hub was opened on Friday, offering support to children and their families.

Thomas Taylor died after being stabbed near a bus station in Bedford

In October, Bennett Ndenkeh, 19, was told he would spend at least 22 years in custody after being found guilty at Luton Crown Court of murdering Thomas.

Riaz Miah, 18, was given an eight-year custodial term after being found guilty of manslaughter.

Amy Longstaff, Thomas's aunt, said the family was still coming to terms with his death.

"We continue to keep occupied to do better for the community, but it has been very tough and challenging, but as a family we have been getting through it," she said.

Sarah Ross said early intervention was important in keeping children safe

Sarah Ross, assistant head at the school, said she hoped the hub would be useful for early intervention.

"Children turn to other groups for support and it's really hard to pull them back," she said.

"That is why we are trying to start very early before it is too late."

The hub would operate into the evening with youth groups and counselling available.

Amy said: "If we can save one child's life, that does me. I know we are doing something right."