GROUPS of people gathered on Monday night to celebrate the life of Haydn Griffiths at a candlelit vigil.
Members of the local community came together on Monday, August 1 at Derby Pool car park in Wallasey in tribute to the 23-year-old, who tragically lost his life after attempting to swim out to wind turbines and didn’t resurface.
Haydn’s family joined residents as tributes and speeches were made about his life.
Haydn’s sister Megan Griffiths spoke with the Globe about the “heart-warming” support of the Wirral community.
She said: “It’s quite overwhelming. It’s difficult being back here tonight because this is where Haydn made the decision to go swimming on that fateful evening but it’s wonderful to be surrounded by the community and Haydn’s favourite music.
“The love and support are giving us strength and it’s fantastic.”
The evening included an emotional speech by Megan, followed by a poem from vigil organiser Clare Quirk.
Speakers played out music from Haydn’s playlist and the evening ended with a two-minute applause for Haydn and the lighting of candles.
Speaking of the support from the local community, Megan said: “At first, I thought no one would support the crazy idea that Haydn could be somewhere washed up and injured and that we had to find him.
“But hundreds and hundreds of people jumped on board, and it’s been heart-warming.
“People searched with determination and people weren’t scared or afraid.
“People were strong and motivated and ready for the search to find Haydn if he was to be found alive, we gave him that chance.
“He is here with us tonight. He is here in spirit, and he would love it.
“He loves the wind, rain, and music. It’s brought people together whether that’s new people, strangers, or friends everybody is here celebrating Haydn’s short but amazing life.”
As well as remembering her younger brother, Megan also warned others about the risks of nature and swimming in open waters.
She said: “Be aware of your surroundings, know the area where you are going out, know the tides, ask yourself are there going to be jellyfish, are there rocks, are there strong currents.
“Haydn understood all of this and knew the tide times, he is the strongest and most competent swimmer, and this happened to him so it could happen to anyone.
“I want to thank the RNLI, the coastguard, the amazing community for everything that they’ve done supporting our family throughout the search and now after we’ve found Haydn’s body.
“It’s the closure that we needed and it’s given us the strength to continue our lives and raise awareness.”
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