Plymouth has reacted with shock and anger this morning after a memorial for 19-year-old Josh Hayman was labelled a 'state' in a news report.
For a family forever grieving the sudden loss of their son, and for friends still laying flowers and tributes beneath a tree in Central Park, the suggestion that their place of mourning was tied to rubbish and disorder has caused fresh hurt when dignity was needed most.
Josh, known to many as 'Jayman', sadly died last month after being struck by a train. He has been remembered as kind, funny and fiercely loyal, a teenager who loved his family, his friends and Plymouth Argyle. His memory was honoured when the Green Army rose to their feet in the 19th minute at Home Park, applauding for every year of his life.
The memorial in Central Park has grown into a space of love and remembrance. Flowers, Argyle colours, candles, photographs and handwritten messages have been placed with care beneath the shade of a tree near the stadium. Those who knew Josh have gathered there quietly, reflecting on his life and leaving tokens of respect over the past few weeks
To see this sacred site described in terms of bottles, tipped bins and firework debris has been deeply upsetting for many in Plymouth. Crucially, there is no evidence that Josh’s friends or family left the park in disarray. Linking disorder to a memorial without proof risks stigmatising grieving young people and undermines a community’s act of love.
One local resident said:
“Most of the pictures in the article are of the memorial of the young lad and it has been labelled as a state. Give yourself a pat on the back for this bit of inconsiderate reporting. And before anyone says anything yes there has been a bin kicked over. I can clearly see that which has resulted in rubbish being thrown across the pavement probably from seagulls or other wildlife looking for food.”
This is not about silencing local news or overlooking issues in our parks. It is about proportion, language and responsibility. A boy’s death is not a backdrop for careless headlines. A memorial is not a 'state'. It is a symbol of loss, love and resilience.
Josh was more than the tragedy of his passing. He was a son, a mate, a loyal supporter and a young man whose smile lifted those around him. Plymouth has shown that truth in Central Park and in Home Park, where respect and compassion have spoken louder than anything else.
We stand with Josh’s family, his friends and the Green Army in calling for accuracy, dignity and humanity. Memorials deserve to be treated as what they are, love made visible. Nothing less and not a 'state'.
If you or someone you know needs support, Samaritans are available on 116 123, free and 24 hours a day. You can also email jo@samaritans.org.
Sign up for free below to get notified with all the latest breaking news from Plymouth Plus.
