Mackenzie Swift: Petition launched to rename bridge after drowned boy
Scores of tributes have been paid after the 11-year-old’s death
A petition has been launched to rename a Doncaster bridge after Mackenzie Swift, the 11-year-old boy who tragically drowned in the River Don.
The youngster’s body was found in the water near Mexborough on June 2 after a huge search operation by emergency services.
Now a campaign has been launched for a bridge near to the scene of the tragedy to be permanently renamed in his honour.
The Ferry Boat Wharf footbridge over the river has already become a focal point for tributes to Mackenzie, with flowers, toys, photos and balloons piling up at the scene.
Petition organiser Bryonie Whittington, Mackenzie's auntie said:
“Like so many people, our lives changed forever on 30 May when we lost Mackenzie at just 11 years old.
“Mackenzie's mum, Suzie, is not just my sister- she is one of my closest friends.
“We speak almost every day and have always been there for each other through good times and bad.
“Our children were very close and spent a lot of time together over the years.
“Mackenzie was such a lovely boy, full of life, always smiling, always laughing, and always bringing joy to those around him.
“Mackenzie's passing has left a void in our hearts that can never be filled.
“To honour his memory and the happiness he brought to all who knew him, we humbly request the renaming of the Ferry Boat Wharf Footbridge to "Mackenzie Swift Bridge."
“This small but meaningful gesture will serve as a lasting tribute to Mackenzie and his joyful spirit. It will also be a comforting reminder to our family, friends, and the community at large of the enduring impact of his short but beautiful life.
“In addition to renaming the bridge, we propose the creation of a permanent yellow memorial, as yellow was Mackenzie’s favourite colour.
“This memorial will provide a place where people can come to remember Mackenzie, reflect, and celebrate the happiness he brought to everyone. It will be a symbol of the light he brought into our lives, ensuring his spirit continues to shine brightly within our community.
“Renaming the Ferry Boat Wharf Footbridge and establishing a memorial in Mackenzie's name will not only commemorate his life but also offer support and strength to everyone who loved him.
“We believe that these gestures will bring some solace to our grieving hearts and help keep his memory alive in the town.
“Please join us in making this tribute a reality by signing this petition.
“Your support will be instrumental in honouring the memory of a young boy who brought immense joy and love to those who were lucky enough to know him.
“Let us come together as a community and ensure that his legacy continues to inspire and brighten the lives of many for years to come. We deeply appreciate your consideration and support in this endeavour.”
You can sign the petition here - https://www.change.org/p/rename-ferry-boat-wharf-footbridge-to-mackenzie-swift-bridge?utm_medium=custom_url&utm_source=share_petition&recruited_by_id=90ca11b0-6053-11f1-8e7c-017968dda5bc
It is the latest in a series of tributes to Mackenzie.
Pupils at local schools wore yellow in his memory, while a church service took place in his honour.
A huge balloon release was also held and his family are calling for a minute’s applause from England supporters in the 11th minute of the Three Lions opening game against Croatia at the World Cup on June 17.
Yesterday (June 11) an inquest opened into Mackenzie’s death.
He went missing in the River Don in Mexborough on 30 May and his body was recovered on 2 June.
He was the 17th person to die in open water during the heatwave that included the May Bank Holiday weekend.
The hearing was told that Mackenzie's body could be released to his family for the funeral, and a final inquest into his death would take place on 16 February next year.