A talking bench has been installed in Penrith to mark the Baton of Hope tour, which passed through the town last year.
The bench, at Thacka Beck Field, is a place where people can reflect or share a conversation with a stranger.
It is dedicated to Gavin Hope, whose sister Terri was a baton holder in September.
The Hope family lost Gavin to suicide in May 2024.
She wanted to create a lasting legacy.
The bench’s inscription says: “A moment for you. Take a breath. Sit. Be kind to yourself – this bench is here for you. Dedicated in loving memory of Gavin
Hope and The Baton of Hope Tour 2025. Raising awareness and hope around suicide prevention.”
Councillor Barbara Jayson, chair of communities committee and deputy chair of Penrith Town Council, said: “This bench creates a lasting tribute to Penrith’s involvement in the Baton of Hope Tour 2025 and to the important message behind it.
“We were pleased to approve its installation following Terri’s request, and I hope it will be a place that offers comfort, reflection and connection for many people
in the years ahead.
“It is a small but significant way of showing that hope, kindness and conversation matter.”
Terri said: “I’d like to thank Penrith Town Council for helping to create something lasting from the Baton of Hope’s national visit to Penrith.
“Gavin and I used to play in that field as children, which makes it especially meaningful to me that the bench is there in his memory.
“I hope it gives people a place to sit, take a breath, and perhaps start a conversation, and helps our community continue to raise awareness that there is hope, and that the world is a better place with you in it.
“For all those who have been taken from us too soon – this is for you.”
