Marlow schoolboy Kyrece Francis remembered six years on

He was a talented footballer and was a popular figure at GMS.

READ MORE: Safety units in memory of Kyrece Francis have been taken in Marlow

However, on Tuesday, July 22, 2014, Kyrece tragically died when swimming in the Marlow stretch of the River Thames.

This happened on the first day of that year’s summer holidays.

Since then, a charity called Kyrece’s Legacy was launched to promote water safety, where several life-saving equipment were put up along the river.

However, since lockdown restrictions were lifted, a number of the b’lines have been stolen.

One of the b'lines that were taken

But thanks to those who run the Marlow Life Facebook group, a Go Fund Me page has been set up so that the equipment can be replaced.

Those who run the Facebook group are Anna Morant, Tayla Louise Smith and Penny North.

A quote from the fundraising page said: “As a result of his passing, Kyrece's Legacy was formed.

READ MORE: Kyrece's Legacy safety unit is taken AGAIN - the second time in two months

“Fundraising meant that 28 life saving devices could be sited along the River Thames.

“Sadly, for whatever reason, some individuals have felt it acceptable to remove some of the devices.

Previously they have been located but from the most recent incident they are still missing.

“The devices were put in place to try to ensure that facilities were available if anyone was in need of help in the water, so that no one else's family have to go through the heartbreak and loss of a loved one.

“The thoughtless removal of these devices is putting lives at risk.”

A target of £500 has been set with many contributors donating £22 – the date of Kyrece’s passing, his squad number at football, and that he died 22 days for his 14th birthday.

To donate, click here.