Ryan Masterman's Memorial Service - Friday 20th May 2016

Ryan Masterman died ten years ago, on 10th April 2006, while riding his bike.

On Friday 20th May 2016 there was a memorial service held in school for Ryan. Ryan’s sister Kirsten came along and there were also past and present Balshaw’s staff.

The service began with an opening prayer from Jeff Fearnley and was followed by recollections from Caroline Molyneux who was Ryan’s tutor at Balshaw’s.

The congregation joined together to sing ‘Abide with Me’. There was then a reading by Jo Venn who was the Head at Balshaw’s at the time Ryan was a student.

The closing prayer was led by Jeff Fearnley.

The congregation then had time for reflection about Ryan and a visit to the memorial garden that was built in memory of Ryan. The memorial garden is a peaceful place to reflect and our annual service at the beginning of Advent is held there. During this time we remember Ryan and it is a chance for everyone to gather and think loved ones they have lost.

You can read more about the memorial garden service here.

Pictured left to right are: Jeff Fearnley, Kirsten (Ryan's Sister), Caroline Molyneux (Ryan's tutor)  and Jo Venn (former Head at Balshaw's).

There were a number of articles in local and national publications after Ryan’s accident and you read can more via the links below:

LEP: Garden tribute to tragic Ryan

Chorley Guardian: Friends want memorial to tragic Ryan 

Chorley Guardian: School's tribute to Chorley pupil

Chorley Guardian: School memorial garden appeal gathers pace

Lancashire Life: Balshaw High in Leyland win 2013 Lancashire Life School Garden of the Year 

Yorkshire Evening Post: Memorial garden wins award