A VIGIL for a homeless man who died in a tent next to the River Severn to give him the ‘send off he never had’ is to be held in Worcester.
The event is being organised by homelessness campaigner, Hugo Sugg, in memory of Cardon Banfield who was found dead in a tent on the banks of the River Severn close to Worcestershire County Cricket Club last year.
Mr Sugg, who launched the ‘Justice for Cardon’ campaign, said the vigil will take place on July 5, between 3pm and 4pm. It will remind people about the homeless issue in Worcester, as well as how to help those with no fixed abode.
The vigil will mark the one anniversary since Cardon’s body was discovered. Mr Banfield’s body was so badly decomposed he could only be identified from his DNA.
During an inquest held last October, Coroner Geraint Williams recorded an open conclusion into his death.
Speaking to the Observer, Hugo said: “It is due to take place by the entrance to the path on the cricket club side of the road bridge in Worcester.
“I want it to be a send off that Cardon never had, and I want to remind people about the homeless issue in Worcester, as well as how to help the homeless.
“I will be inviting past and present city and county politicians, officers of the City Council and homeless organisations in the city like St Paul’s, CCP and YMCA.
“Members of the public will be encouraged to lay flowers and light candles – and if any of them want to say a few words, there will be a platform to allow this,” he added.
