A “poignant and lasting tribute” to Essex children, who were killed in a crash, has been unveiled. The memorial cherry tree and bench, near Little Searles Play Park in Pitsea, are in memory of siblings Roman and Darcie Casselde who died in February last year in the crash reports the Local Democracy Reporter.
Basildon Borough Council funded the memorial after the “community was rocked by the awful incident.” Councillors met with the children’s family on Friday January 30 for the unveiling of the tree and bench.
Roman Casselden, 16, and nine-year-old Darcie were on an e-scooter when they were hit by a car in Pitsea, near Basildon, Essex, on 1 February last year. Thee deaths sparked demands for better road safety in Ashlyns, Pitsea and a petition has been launched in a bid to get improvements. Emma Keeling, the children’s mum, thanked the councillors.
She said: “It was lovely seeing the bench for Roman and Darcie finally in place and we have chosen a cherry tree and planted that with the council. Thank you to councillors Pat Reid, Gavin Callaghan, Emma Callaghan and the committee for making this happen. We have put some lovely flowers down and decorated the sides of the bench. It looks so lovely.”
Deimante Ziobryte, 21, of Benfleet, has been charged with failing to stop at the scene of a collision, in relation to the crash. She is next due in court in March. Last week it was announced she will face no further action in relation to causing death by dangerous driving.
Gavin Callaghan, leader of the council, added: “As a parent myself, I cannot begin to imagine the pain of losing two children in one day. No family should ever have to face that kind of loss. The strength and dignity this family continue to show is extraordinary. I told them that this weekend, the whole of our borough will be thinking of them and of all the family and friends who are still grieving for two beautiful children taken far too soon. Roman and Darcie will never be forgotten.”
Categories: Crime
Authorities: Essex County Council
