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Mum's Horror as Son's Memorial Bench Torched
27 May
Summary
- A memorial bench for Max George was destroyed in a suspected arson attack.
- The bench was dedicated to Max, who died in 2022 at age 13.
- Community members have already raised £1,000 towards replacing the bench.

A grieving mother has shared her "absolute horror" after discovering her son Max George's memorial bench was destroyed in a suspected arson attack. Max tragically passed away in 2022 at the age of 13 due to a diabetic-related heart attack. The bench, situated in Queen Elizabeth II field in Trowbridge, Wiltshire, was found reduced to ashes in the early hours of bank holiday Monday.
Max's mother, Tara George, described the bench as more than just a piece of furniture, recalling it as a place where the family shared precious moments. Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service confirmed their crews attended the scene and extinguished the fire. This bench was one of two originally installed following a community fundraising effort in 2022.
The incident has deeply saddened and frustrated the local community, according to former Trowbridge councillor Antonio Piazza. However, he noted the encouraging response from residents who have already raised approximately £1,000 toward a replacement. Wiltshire Police are currently conducting enquiries and appealing for any information regarding the suspected arson attack.