A FATHER marked the first anniversary of his son’s death this week by shaving his hair off at the exact spot where he drowned.
Richard Fellows had all of his hair cut off on Monday to raise money for the Royal Life Saving Society which promotes water safety.
His son, who was also called Richard, died on the exact date last year after getting into difficulties at Paper Mill Weir while swimming with two friends.
Knowing how much the 15-year-old loved his long hair the devoted dad decided to wait to cut his own off until the first anniversary and called in the help of Michelle Johnson from Love Your Hair salon.
Richard was joined by his wife Denise, son Shane and daughters Chantalle, Terri and Sharney to remember the Trinity High schoolboy.
The family have worked closely with the drowning prevention charity to raise awareness of the dangers of open water since the teenager’s death and have already raised £1,000.
Mr Fellows said Richard loved his long blond hair and he wanted to do something which would honour his passing.
“The past 12 months have been hard, very hard. I keep thinking he will come walking through the door for his dinner, it is very, very hard.
“It is difficult but we just take each day as it comes. It is hard to explain, it is hard to come back here and remember.
“I think Richard would be laughing his head of because we used to take the mick out of him for his long hair.”
He added what happened was a tragic accident and he urged parents to not let their children play by open water.
Di Steer, chief executive officer for RLSS, said: “We have worked with the family for a year but it is actually the first time I have come down here to the spot and it is very poignant to be here and see the commemorative plaque.”
