A memorial bench dedicated to 14‑year‑old Jake Watson has been fully restored and returned to South Quay after being damaged earlier this year.
The repair work was carried out by a team from the Isle of Man Prison’s Skills Centre, after Jake’s mother, Lea Watson, learned through social media that the bench had been struck, believed to be by a reversing vehicle whose driver did not report the incident.
Lea said: “‘From what we understand, a car appears to have reversed into the bench and the driver left without reporting it. The bench means so much to our whole family. It’s where we go to remember Jake and not having that space has been quite traumatic.
“There are no words to express my sincere gratitude to the people who organised this. I will be eternally grateful. I’d also like to thank those who made us aware of the damage and kept me updated. People can be incredibly kind.”
Prison Governor Leroy Bonnick said the project was meaningful for everyone involved and highlighted how the skills developed by prisoners can be used positively to support the community.
