The stepson of the late founder of Rayne Youth Football Club has unveiled a bench in memory of his stepfather.

Luke Addington, 13, of Rosemary Avenue, Braintree, raised £760 to pay for the bench which was placed at All Saints Church, Shalford Road, Rayne, where his stepfather, Perry Lees, is buried.

Mr Lees died of a heart attack in September last year, aged 40, leaving partner Teresa Addington, and six children - one from their relationship, his three children and Mrs Addington's two sons.

As a result of the tragedy, Luke, a Notley High School pupil, decided to collect money at Mr Lees' wake for a bench.

Mrs Addington said: "I am really proud of Luke. He put a lot of work into it so it is nice the result is now there."

Published Monday December 15, 2003

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