Scores of floral tributes have today (Monday) been left on Burnham-On-Sea’s seafront in memory of a four year-old boy who lost his life after falling from the town’s jetty into the sea last night.
Bouquets of flowers and toys have been laid on the sea wall in memory of the young Dylan Cecil, from Kettering, who went missing after slipping off the jetty and falling into the water at 6pm on Sunday evening.
The family has thanked local people for their support. Dylan’s grandparents, David and Jackie McCollum, said: “We’re all just devastated. He loved coming up to see us, he loved the seaside. He was a bubbly, bubbly, lovely kid. We couldn’t have wished for a grandson any better.”
Scores of local residents took part in a candlelit vigil on Monday evening as a mark of respect to the youngster.
Reverend Graham Witts from St Andrew’s Church said: “Burnham’s community has united together at this difficult time. We have had a roller coaster of a few weeks in the town after the elation of our local Olympics BMX rider, Liam Phillips, making us so proud and then this. Heartfelt sympathies go to the family and huge appreciation to our rescue services.”
Cllr Dennis Davey, pictured, laid a bouquet in memory of Dylan on behalf of the Town Council and added: “The town is in shock after this terrible tragedy and our sympathies go to the family at this time. We also thank our emergency services for all their work and their dedication.”
Superintendent Keith McCorbrey said: “As you can all imagine this has been an extremely difficult time for the family who tried in vain to save him and were pulled from the water and treated by ambulance.”
“They have been left traumatised by the whole incident. A police family liaison officer is providing support and keeping them updated on the progress of the rescue attempt.”
