A MAN from London has been attempting to get hold of BCP Council for more than a year to renew the lease of a memorial bench in Christchurch. 

Geoff Smith, from Hornchurch in the borough of Havering, said he has been trying to contact the council since summer last year to enquire about adding his father’s name to his mother’s memorial bench. 

Since contacting the Echo, BCP Council said they will be making contact with Mr Smith. 

The 66-year-old's mother, Shirley Smith, died in 2013 and as part of his father’s wishes (William Smith), Geoff and his sister had a name put on a bench along the River Stour alongside Wick Lane, Christchurch. 

Bournemouth Echo: Geoff's parents William and Shirley Smith. Image: Geoff SmithGeoff's parents William and Shirley Smith. Image: Geoff Smith (Image: Geoff Smith)

Geoff said: “My sister and I visit the bench once a year and it’s due to expire in January or February this coming year when the 10-year lease expires. 

“Last summer my father passed away and I wanted to amend the plaque so it reflects mum and dad together. 

“Since August last year I have been chasing BCP Council, but I keep getting an automated message. Having worked in a local authority before, I understand there can be problems there. 

Bournemouth Echo: NewsquestNewsquest (Image: Newsquest)

“The only help I've had is when I was referred to a website where it said they are not doing anything until further notice.  

“I don’t want that further notice to be until someone else comes along and takes the bench and my sister and I looking embarrassed and uncomfortable as a consequence of the council’s inability to deal with my enquiry over a year ago now.” 

Geoff paid around £900 a few years ago and he is happy to pay again. 

Geoff added: “My parents used to spend all their holidays in BCP as a young married couple. My sister and I had many family holidays here too.  

Bournemouth Echo: NewsquestNewsquest (Image: Newsquest)

“When my mum died in the end of 2013, it was my dad’s wishes to have something there as a memory. Unfortunately, last year he died of old age.” 

A BCP Spokesperson said: “Our commemorative bench scheme is closed to new enquiries, as we are currently reviewing the policies for all three legacy councils with a view to harmonisation of the scheme. We expect this to be up and running again in the New Year. 

“In the meantime, we will be making contact with Mr Smith to reassure him that a renewal and changes to the bench will be something we can arrange.”