PUPILS, staff and friends of Redhill School, Stourbridge, gathered before breaking up for summer to dedicate new benches in memory of a former pupil and staff member.

The first was to remember tragic teenager James Lowe, who died suddenly while on holiday with his family in August 2011 just before he was due to start his final school year.

Money for the bench, which was sited by a pond in the school grounds, was raised by a group of James' friends, with support fromBlack Country businesses.

Four of James’ friends, Ellie Shilvock, Amy Peart, Reme-Leanne Marsh and Emma Barnes-Nicholls, attended the dedication ceremony along with family members.

The other bench was installed near the school office in memory of former support staff member Jackie Hubble, who died in December 2012 after a short battle with cancer.

A school spokesman said: "Both James and Jackie were known as people who always had time for others and who knew how to support someone in need."

James' parents have also set up the James Lowe Memorial Prize - which is awarded annually to a year 11 student who has, in the opinion of his or her peers, contributed most to the values and ethos of the school.