The restoration of a trail at Bridport Primary School in memory of a little boy who died of cancer took one step forward with the arrival of animal totems chosen by pupils.

Branden's Trail was created at the school after Branden Wayland - who was taught at the school's early years classroom - was diagnosed with cancer at just three-years-old and died two years later.

The trail, which is next to the early years classroom, became derelict, and a project was launched by Bridport Young Persons' Action Trust (BYPAT) to revitalise the memorial and make it a legacy to other young children with the creation of a sensory garden and therapy trail.

The project has already touched many children's hearts with some Year 6 pupils saying:

"The trail is remembering a life lost."

"The trail means a lot. Children can feel comforted in this space. They know they have a calm place to go."

"We'd like to see the project through, to see what we helped start and how it turns out."

"It will be good to see people use it, helping them mentally and physically."

In a further development, Bridport Arts Centre has joined the partnership of organisations and individuals already involved.

Bryony Moores O'Sullivan, youth engagement officer, said: "A mural will enhance a sense of ownership with artwork from all the children. The trail, a healing space for them to connect with themselves and nature."

Bryony and local artists Imogen Neylan and Theadora Brazier will begin design workshops at the school in September.

Before then, town surveyor Daryl Chambers and his team - Branden's Trail is the town council's 'community project of the year' - will begin preparing the area during the summer holidays. Once ready, Bridport Gardening Club will set about installing sensory plants and flowers.

Margaret Genender, chairman of Bridport Gardening Club, said: "It is a great project for the community to be involved in."

The children will then be let loose to place things they've made - painted stone bees and ladybirds - and things they've chosen - a wishing well, wind chimes, fun things to bring a smile and more.

Local author, Colin Ward, will be working with the children to produce a book of thoughts and poems related to the trail, a memorial to five-year-old Branden Wayland, now transformed into a legacy for other children in need of support.

The official opening is scheduled for October, with Bridport mayor, councillor Ian Bark, and town crier John Collingwood both in attendance.

For more information on the project, email [email protected]

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