Updated: Teenager dies after Thorpe Bay crash (From Echo)
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Updated: Teenager dies after Thorpe Bay crash
7:20am Wednesday 11th March 2009 in
A GIRL involved in a car crash in Thorpe Bay has died. Eleanor McGrath, 14, from Shoebury, had been battling for life at Great Ormond Street Hospital in London since the crash in Tyrone Road on Friday night.
Police have appealed to any witnesses to the accident to contact Rayleigh road policing unit, on 0300 3334444.
Click here for our page dedicated to tributes to Eleanor
Comments(284)
APR
says...
10:37am Sat 7 Mar 09
History tells us that this is very unlikely to happen.
Of course we all hope that the injured recover.
holly182182
says...
11:12am Sat 7 Mar 09
keep strong
holly&charlotte xxxxx
AC
says...
11:58am Sat 7 Mar 09
thorpebay
says...
12:26pm Sat 7 Mar 09
As someone else said, I feel they are all likely to need some sort of counselling. My daughter held the bloodstained head of one of her unconscious friends before being sent home by police as she was getting distressed. Several of her friends were screaming.
I dont blame the driver's parents for giving him a car when he passed his test though, they must have trusted the examiner's judgement that their son was fit to drive as most of us would. Unfortunately I think many 17-year old boys with a new licence could be tempted to show off in front of younger teenagers. The driving test doesnt cover maturity. They'll be paying a heavy price too, though that's no consolation at the moment to parents with children who are badly injured or on life-support machines.
chunky52
says...
1:11pm Sat 7 Mar 09
Whilst this incident could so easily have had a different outcome thank God it didn't. WHY on earth was it necessary for the driver to show off his obvious incompetence to handle a motor vehicle. This is the sixth traffic incident involving YOUNG drivers in this Borough since Christmas, (barely 10 weeks), three that have resulted in fatalities. What has to be done to bring the message home to these youngsters?
As previous comments above, the driving test does not take into account maturity and common sense, some young people are very sensible and more mature than others, but how many more of these incidents, and sadly no doubt more fatalities, will it take to get the message home. All drivers out there - young and not so young, DRIVE RESPONSIBLY AND WITH CARE FOR YOURSELVES AND OTHERS.
Lets hope all make a speedy recovery.
theresastar
says...
2:00pm Sat 7 Mar 09
Someone close to me is really close with the people in the crash, and they're not being helped by those people on here blaming his friend for crashing and harming these people. The drivers got to cope with his injuries and the guilt of this all. It was a mistake, everyone makes mistakes. Ok, so he shouldn't have been driving so fast, and especially in his new car. But things happen, and we can't change that now. And these teens are in a critical condition in hospital, so can't we focus on that?
My prayers are with the family and friends. I know they're in a lot of peoples thoughts since last night.
Auntie Dawn
says...
2:05pm Sat 7 Mar 09
My heart also goes out to my nephew’s dear friends, classmates who are now critically injured and suffering because of the actions of yet another immature senseless driver on our roads.
I do so hope all those involved make a full recovery my love & thoughts are with you all xxxxxxxxx
paul 205464
says...
2:43pm Sat 7 Mar 09
Rayleigh mum
says...
3:05pm Sat 7 Mar 09
injured bystanders. This forum would be better put to use discussing ways to minimise the incidents involving younger drivers in the future. How could this have been prevented? Would the driver having a brand new car, or an old banger have made any difference whatsoever? Would the pedestrians hanging around elsewhere have made any difference? I think not.
Maybe something like enforcing a curfew on new young drivers would be something to be considered, or a limit on the engine size of a car they are allowed to drive when they first pass their test? Many drivers behave differently when they are alone in the car, to when they are with passenger(s) and this will not change in my view, whatever their age/experience. I do have an 18 year old daughter who passed her test at 17. She, I am sure, drives differently when in the car with friends than when I am with her.
My thoughts go out to the parents and families of the people injured in this case, and also the driver of the car. I hope he will be thinking more seriously of how his driving can affect others around him in the future.
sisters
says...
3:10pm Sat 7 Mar 09
I.E.L.2000
says...
4:01pm Sat 7 Mar 09
Sister Forever
Loveyou millions
Emily, Imogen and Lauren xxxxxxxxxx
P.S. Our thoughts are with you Jack as well, hold on. xx
lakes
says...
4:51pm Sat 7 Mar 09
Winston Smith
says...
5:09pm Sat 7 Mar 09
Southend Resident wrote:An accident is something that happens which is beyond anyone's control where no-one is to blame, for example a tree falling on a passing car is an 'accident'.
I think people are reacting appallingly to what is a tragic accident. Yes, it is horrific for the injured and families of the injured, but spare a thought for the young driver, it has been traumatic for them and affected the rest of their life also.
I am ashamed that adults/parents have been petty enough to comment about having a new car...jealousy is a pathetic feeling to have at this time...and on the point about not knowing how children drive when away from their parents...exactly, any one of your children counld have made that silly split second mistake that had obviously unforeseen consequenses. An accident is so called because it is purely that...and foolishness is a very different thing from being a bad person...no-one set out to hurt anyone last night,please remember that and have some decency.
This incident is not an 'accident'. It is the fault of the driver for not driving responsibly. This entire tragic episode was entirely avoidable.
I sincerely hope all the injured make full recoveries.
I also hope that the irresponsible driver has the book thrown at him and is removed from the road for many years.
Winston Smith
says...
5:15pm Sat 7 Mar 09
lakes wrote:The BBC have covered it:
how the hell this has not made the main TV news i will never know.
http://news.bbc.co.u
k/1/hi/england/essex
/7929978.stm
southendGirl#1
says...
5:27pm Sat 7 Mar 09
The people that have said that young people should be in youth clubs, and that the police should break up these groups of people, i do not agree, these were not drunk people running up and down the road and this crash could have been easily averted if the boy in the car had been more sensible.
i would also like to send my best wishes to Jack and Eleanor and families that were involved.
xxx
miketanousis
says...
5:42pm Sat 7 Mar 09
Our sole focus thoughts and prayers are with the parents and fanilies of the young girl and boy. I hope everyine in the community lights a candle prays for a speedy recovery that is all we can do.
I know the this is a terrible time but all we can do is have faith and hope.
tazzie
says...
6:12pm Sat 7 Mar 09
KML
says...
6:27pm Sat 7 Mar 09
Time
says...
6:35pm Sat 7 Mar 09
theresastar
says...
7:04pm Sat 7 Mar 09
You've got a lot of people thinking of you x
Steve Rowe
says...
7:14pm Sat 7 Mar 09
. 1. Raise the driving licence age from 17 to 21. It would give an extra 4 years of mental maturity. 2. Change over from driving manual transmuission cars to automatics. I feel I am a far saver driver since I changed to automatics over 40 years ago.
kitten81
says...
7:17pm Sat 7 Mar 09
She is not blaming others, my brother is part of the group you are talking about and they are sensible good kids and 9.45pm is not late on a fri night for 16 yr olds to be walking home.
localsavvy
says...
7:19pm Sat 7 Mar 09
Whoever said that - disgraceful.
Everybody has a right to walk down the pavement. It's not as if they were staggering drunk down the middle of the road at three in the morning, which is what you're making it out to be.
This person's child has been involved in a car accident - even if you know the driver, can't you please demonstrate some sympathy?
WitnessTyrone
says...
7:39pm Sat 7 Mar 09
I am 16 and was one of the people unfortunate enough to witness the crash.
The people outside were on their way home, and the driver turned up unexpectedly. I'm not getting onto the issue of the driver, as I could go on forever.
The scene was absolutely horrific and I feel it is appalling for people trying to focus on what car he was driving, and how us teenagers could have caused the crash.
Myself and my friends spent an hour trying everything that we could to help the injured, using all of our first aid knowledge to try and save them.
We are currently waiting to know how some of the more critical people are doing, and I don't think that arguing whose fault the accident is, arguing about the driving age or arguing about curfews is going to do any good at a time like this.
h.randle
says...
8:00pm Sat 7 Mar 09
Wishing you all the very best.
Harry.
southendGirl#1
says...
8:50pm Sat 7 Mar 09
My best wishes to all those who got hit and to Jack and Eleanor.
alexbright
says...
9:05pm Sat 7 Mar 09
southendboy64
says...
9:31pm Sat 7 Mar 09
i know that i cannot do much for them, and that they are in the best care possible.
But i want jack, ellen and eleanor to know that i am praying for you ... please god help eleanor tommorow, she will need all the help she can get ...
everyone is thinking of you and praying for you jack
please recover soon ****
whataday
says...
9:32pm Sat 7 Mar 09
mb4
says...
9:41pm Sat 7 Mar 09
The witch hunt that has been displayed on here about the driver is appalling.
Most of you claim to know the driver, therefore does your better judgement not tell you that he wouldnt have intentionally wanted to hurt his friends?
He was driving a new car, does that make a difference to the injuries that people have then? He could have had an old banger and the outcome still be the same. The car he was driving is completely irrelevant.
His family will be completely devastated by this. They and he will have to live with the consequences of last night forever.
At the end of the day, any one of our children could have been behind the wheel, and those of you who say otherwise need to wake up and realise that out of sight none of us really know what our teenagers are up to. He wasnt drunk, he wasnt on drugs,admittedly he was being careless, but i can guarantee that nobody will be feeling any more worse than he is right now.
Its an absolutely terrible situation for everyone involved, including the driver.
theresastar
says...
10:02pm Sat 7 Mar 09
mumpetuk
says...
10:05pm Sat 7 Mar 09
jbsouthend
says...
10:15pm Sat 7 Mar 09
I can't believe for one moment that he anticipated the injuries he would cause behind the wheel to any of the teenagers.
Also my thoughts are with the other teenage witnesses who saw their friends injured, unconscious or crying for help it must have been very distressing.
Thinking of you all xxxxx
girl.
says...
10:23pm Sat 7 Mar 09
thoughts go out to the family & friends who have been involved in any sort of way.
minime1uk
says...
10:28pm Sat 7 Mar 09
My thoughts go out to all those innocent youngsters, and i hope that everyone makes a good recovery, To all the families out there, i hope you have good support and courage to help you through this horrendous time! My thoughts go out to you!!!!!!!!
doyoufeel100
says...
10:43pm Sat 7 Mar 09
mumpetuk
says...
10:46pm Sat 7 Mar 09
Southendman
your comments are irrelevant to this forum....these young adults were just normal, happy, polite and innocent youngters...post your message in a anti social forum!
girly
says...
10:48pm Sat 7 Mar 09
I came on to make a point that arguing about a article will not solve anything, when nobody knows the truth unless you are in the car with the driver. Nothing can be changed now! But it shows how mature you are, by even trying to argue with a 15 year old.
Grow up and have some sympathy for everyone!
bronte
says...
10:59pm Sat 7 Mar 09
Southendman
says...
11:10pm Sat 7 Mar 09
mumpetuk wrote:With respect my comments are relevant to this because the driver of the car most certainly thought he could fool around without any action being taken. This is bourne out of the leniancy shown to teenagers now by government, councils and police. I agree tho that the teenagers walking along the pavement are innocent but they are joining a long list now just like the teenagers stabbed to death in London by other teenagers or the passengers killed in a car driven by a drugged up or drunk teenager or a teenager beaten up and robbed for their mobile or ipod by a gang of other teenagers.
Southendman your comments are irrelevant to this forum....these young adults were just normal, happy, polite and innocent youngters...post your message in a anti social forum!
brother101
says...
11:17pm Sat 7 Mar 09
mumpetuk
says...
11:18pm Sat 7 Mar 09
Southendman wrote:Thats OK then, I thought you were associating them with anti social youths. These youngters were just out to enjoy a Friday night out. I personally know some of them and they are all very decent lovely children... and not anti social yobs swigging beer and vomiting in peoples gargens. Once again I pray that they all will be OK.
mumpetuk wrote: Southendman your comments are irrelevant to this forum....these young adults were just normal, happy, polite and innocent youngters...post your message in a anti social forum!With respect my comments are relevant to this because the driver of the car most certainly thought he could fool around without any action being taken. This is bourne out of the leniancy shown to teenagers now by government, councils and police. I agree tho that the teenagers walking along the pavement are innocent but they are joining a long list now just like the teenagers stabbed to death in London by other teenagers or the passengers killed in a car driven by a drugged up or drunk teenager or a teenager beaten up and robbed for their mobile or ipod by a gang of other teenagers.
LEP
says...
11:22pm Sat 7 Mar 09
I hope you all pull through!!!xx
southendboy15
says...
11:43pm Sat 7 Mar 09
And what are debates on the legal driving age and curfews going to solve? They are irrelevant issues and sporadic events should not mean a complete overhaul of the law, however distressing an event it is, much like this one. I know the boy who drove the car, and I know it is not in his character to purposely or even accidentally cause such an accident.
However, the fact is he has committed wrong, and with all the damage considered, I regrettably say he deserves all the negative attention and punishments he most likely will receive. It may have been an accident but it happened and will have serious long-term repercussions for himself and more significantly the victims of the accident. I'm certain he will be apologetic and send his best wishes to all involved, and this is what is most important, not bickering over unrelated issues that are simply nothing to do with what happened last night.
girly
says...
11:51pm Sat 7 Mar 09
ShsbPupil
says...
12:44am Sun 8 Mar 09
My heart goes out to everyone.
Seeing him just hours before it happend in english, Argghhh.
x
jmgill
says...
1:00am Sun 8 Mar 09
Today i sat next to his bed in a hospital ward his body broken his face torn blood on his covers. Normally we would chat about something crazy and funny but today all i could say is that im so so sorry. We have been friends for so many years and have been there for eachother through the toughest and best times. But i have never seen him like that and the sight of it will haunt me forever. He is just 16 a kid....
Today i wished i was lying in that bed my face torn, my body hurt my bones broken. Because i dont want him to hurt i want to hurt for him i want to take his place.
Today i looked into my friends eyes like i have so many times but i saw pain and i saw suffering.
Today i watched my friend leave and go for surgery and all i could do is sit and wait. I made an excuse to leave the ward so i could cry cause i could not hold it anymore.
Today i watched young kids cry and hold each other i watched parents wipe tears from there childrens eyes. I listened to stories children should not tell stories that broke my heart.
Today my friend is so hurt inside and out and all he wants to know is that his friends are alright.
southend199
says...
1:03am Sun 8 Mar 09
shocked123
says...
1:04am Sun 8 Mar 09
shocked123
says...
1:05am Sun 8 Mar 09
Bluefox
says...
1:10am Sun 8 Mar 09
shocked123 wrote:That is of course the right and respectful thing to do...but on a news website and being baited into irrelevant arguments?
to the comment above, as friends of them we wants to remember there good lives. so as we are friends with them, we have a right to comment on here. if no one that knew anyone involved came on this website, the truth wouldnt be told. and we havent revealed there details at all, just there names. and initials of schools, it has shocked and pained our schools, take that into consideration.
I have now learnt the two seriously injured parties full names, the schools they attend and the area in which they live.
Do you really want parasitic journalists turning up at the two schools mentioned and upsetting your friends and their parents by asking intrusive questions and casting aspersions in their 'reports'?
Of course not.
Please remember that this is a public forum.
shocked123
says...
1:13am Sun 8 Mar 09
Bluefox wrote:okay, i do understand what your saying.. but im not the only one thats said it. and im not causing an argument, im saying how you dont feel how all of us are. we just want them to know were here for them and were thinking of them
shocked123 wrote: to the comment above, as friends of them we wants to remember there good lives. so as we are friends with them, we have a right to comment on here. if no one that knew anyone involved came on this website, the truth wouldnt be told. and we havent revealed there details at all, just there names. and initials of schools, it has shocked and pained our schools, take that into consideration.That is of course the right and respectful thing to do...but on a news website and being baited into irrelevant arguments? I have now learnt the two seriously injured parties full names, the schools they attend and the area in which they live. Do you really want parasitic journalists turning up at the two schools mentioned and upsetting your friends and their parents by asking intrusive questions and casting aspersions in their 'reports'? Of course not. Please remember that this is a public forum.
Bluefox
says...
1:17am Sun 8 Mar 09
shocked123 wrote:Phone them, visit them, write them a letter.
Bluefox wrote:okay, i do understand what your saying.. but im not the only one thats said it. and im not causing an argument, im saying how you dont feel how all of us are. we just want them to know were here for them and were thinking of them
shocked123 wrote: to the comment above, as friends of them we wants to remember there good lives. so as we are friends with them, we have a right to comment on here. if no one that knew anyone involved came on this website, the truth wouldnt be told. and we havent revealed there details at all, just there names. and initials of schools, it has shocked and pained our schools, take that into consideration.That is of course the right and respectful thing to do...but on a news website and being baited into irrelevant arguments? I have now learnt the two seriously injured parties full names, the schools they attend and the area in which they live. Do you really want parasitic journalists turning up at the two schools mentioned and upsetting your friends and their parents by asking intrusive questions and casting aspersions in their 'reports'? Of course not. Please remember that this is a public forum.
Trust me, a journo knocking on your door at 2am to ask silly questions whilst your kid is in intensive care is not something you'd want.
shocked123
says...
1:20am Sun 8 Mar 09
Bluefox wrote:okay. just please think how youd feel if you were our age for a minute. i appreciate your concern but i am not intendantly saying the wrong thing.
shocked123 wrote:Phone them, visit them, write them a letter. Trust me, a journo knocking on your door at 2am to ask silly questions whilst your kid is in intensive care is not something you'd want.Bluefox wrote:okay, i do understand what your saying.. but im not the only one thats said it. and im not causing an argument, im saying how you dont feel how all of us are. we just want them to know were here for them and were thinking of themshocked123 wrote: to the comment above, as friends of them we wants to remember there good lives. so as we are friends with them, we have a right to comment on here. if no one that knew anyone involved came on this website, the truth wouldnt be told. and we havent revealed there details at all, just there names. and initials of schools, it has shocked and pained our schools, take that into consideration.That is of course the right and respectful thing to do...but on a news website and being baited into irrelevant arguments? I have now learnt the two seriously injured parties full names, the schools they attend and the area in which they live. Do you really want parasitic journalists turning up at the two schools mentioned and upsetting your friends and their parents by asking intrusive questions and casting aspersions in their 'reports'? Of course not. Please remember that this is a public forum.
thorpebay
says...
1:44am Sun 8 Mar 09
I would also just like to say how incredibly moved I have been by the love and friendship shown amongst the teenagers involved following this tragic event - in particular, I have witnessed several teenage boys who are obviously extremely kind, caring and unselfish. I hope they know who they are. I consider my daughter an extremely fortunate girl to have so many wonderful friends, both male and female.
Bluefox
says...
1:44am Sun 8 Mar 09
shocked123 wrote:You have no idea how old i am. I could be a best friend of the driver or (and most likely) a random stranger from the streets of London.
Bluefox wrote:okay. just please think how youd feel if you were our age for a minute. i appreciate your concern but i am not intendantly saying the wrong thing.
shocked123 wrote:Phone them, visit them, write them a letter. Trust me, a journo knocking on your door at 2am to ask silly questions whilst your kid is in intensive care is not something you'd want.Bluefox wrote:okay, i do understand what your saying.. but im not the only one thats said it. and im not causing an argument, im saying how you dont feel how all of us are. we just want them to know were here for them and were thinking of themshocked123 wrote: to the comment above, as friends of them we wants to remember there good lives. so as we are friends with them, we have a right to comment on here. if no one that knew anyone involved came on this website, the truth wouldnt be told. and we havent revealed there details at all, just there names. and initials of schools, it has shocked and pained our schools, take that into consideration.That is of course the right and respectful thing to do...but on a news website and being baited into irrelevant arguments? I have now learnt the two seriously injured parties full names, the schools they attend and the area in which they live. Do you really want parasitic journalists turning up at the two schools mentioned and upsetting your friends and their parents by asking intrusive questions and casting aspersions in their 'reports'? Of course not. Please remember that this is a public forum.
Concerned89. Please read my above posts. If you are so close to the people involved then maybe you should phone her family as I feel its a matter for them to discuss with you. And the word 'source' very journalistic, or maybe you want to habe words with the person who 'revealed' the matter...in either case, my post is very relevant...
southend12345
says...
1:45am Sun 8 Mar 09
i think if everyone is so concerned about these childrent he least we can all do is pray for them, now i am not a religious person but at the moment it is all we can do to help the children. i hope all of you recover soon.
xxx
family2009
says...
3:04am Sun 8 Mar 09
djfitzo
says...
9:05am Sun 8 Mar 09
p.bourne
says...
10:11am Sun 8 Mar 09
My son was one of those injured in the incident and our family know a lot of the people that have been hurt.
I also helped and attended the injured on Friday night.
I have read most of the comments on this site.
The children involved and those who witnessed this very traumatic accident should receive counseling straight away.
The police should be left to investigate the incident.
Kristina123
says...
10:55am Sun 8 Mar 09
I would just like to say keep fighting all of you especially eleanor and ellen, my thought go out to the families and i know they'll get through it
This is going to have hrt our school year so much and well get thorugh it and will be there for when they come out, I hope all of you out ther who are spreading rumours just will stop it as your making the problem worse and its not true.
I hope all of you recover soon
****
loveforyouall
says...
11:06am Sun 8 Mar 09
PLEASE could everyone stop mindlessly jabbering about whos to blame and what car he was driving, and focus on the families of els and jack, and the hell they must be going through. my heart goes out to everyone affected, this was such a tragedy that could so easily have been avoided.
els, everyones here for you and praying for you, we know you can make it. jack, we all wish you the best, you can pull through.
loveforyouall xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
xx
southend8
says...
11:12am Sun 8 Mar 09
thinking of everyone involved in this accident, i know some of the people involved and this is such a shock for me and this will have such a big impact on so many people at my school
i'm sure the boy driving the car must feel awful, and i feel so sorry for everyone who witnessed the event
i hope all the injured people get better soon, and i hope eleanor and jack pull through
you're in my prayers
xx
seeviccol
says...
11:28am Sun 8 Mar 09
southend639
says...
11:31am Sun 8 Mar 09
southend639
says...
12:02pm Sun 8 Mar 09
southend639
says...
12:20pm Sun 8 Mar 09
Laura_SDC
says...
12:25pm Sun 8 Mar 09
praying and thinking of all of you.
your a strong fighter you can do it!
****
louloubell
says...
12:32pm Sun 8 Mar 09
jmgill wrote:jmgill,
Today I spent the day with my friend. He is the most awesome guy in the world and i have known him since he was one years old. He is kind, considerate, caring and is the best listener. I could not imagine life with out him.
Today i sat next to his bed in a hospital ward his body broken his face torn blood on his covers. Normally we would chat about something crazy and funny but today all i could say is that im so so sorry. We have been friends for so many years and have been there for eachother through the toughest and best times. But i have never seen him like that and the sight of it will haunt me forever. He is just 16 a kid....
Today i wished i was lying in that bed my face torn, my body hurt my bones broken. Because i dont want him to hurt i want to hurt for him i want to take his place.
Today i looked into my friends eyes like i have so many times but i saw pain and i saw suffering.
Today i watched my friend leave and go for surgery and all i could do is sit and wait. I made an excuse to leave the ward so i could cry cause i could not hold it anymore.
Today i watched young kids cry and hold each other i watched parents wipe tears from there childrens eyes. I listened to stories children should not tell stories that broke my heart.
Today my friend is so hurt inside and out and all he wants to know is that his friends are alright.
Your words have had a profound affect on me. They are heartfelt, genuine and compassionate. You have so eloquently expressed what I imagine a lot of your other friends are feeling.
My thoughts and prayers go out to those that are injured, but also to the others, like yourself, that are helping to ensure the victims get support and love. Your role is as important as that of the doctors and nurses - they can help with the wounds, but you are helping the mind and spirit. Good on you.
I know you may not realise or understand right now, that your friend is lucky to have such a remarkable young man by his side.
alexbright
says...
12:58pm Sun 8 Mar 09
x
con71
says...
1:09pm Sun 8 Mar 09
alicedonut
says...
1:09pm Sun 8 Mar 09
As stated in the report the car crashed into a tree and hit a wall, the 'group of kids' were standing in the front garden of a house as they were celebrating a 16 year olds birthday they weren't hanging in the street the car careered off the road and into the wall of a front garden.
alicedonut
says...
1:17pm Sun 8 Mar 09
con71
says...
1:23pm Sun 8 Mar 09
i am shocked at what he has done!
a mistake (and what a big one) has been made and anyone involved will never get over this, including the driver....
seeviccol
says...
1:36pm Sun 8 Mar 09
****
southend639
says...
1:54pm Sun 8 Mar 09
liamsullivan
says...
2:08pm Sun 8 Mar 09
lucy***
says...
2:16pm Sun 8 Mar 09
eleanor and jack are both strong and they can pull through with hope!!!
hope you get well soon!
xxxxxx
seeviccol
says...
2:28pm Sun 8 Mar 09
con71 wrote:i can not express to you how much i hate the driver. he has broken my friends leg in 4 places and has ruined 14 other of my friends lives not even counting those who had to stand and watch their friends in this situation...he deserves everything that comes to him, he has never been a nice kid the boy i know is arrogant and cares solely for himself! he better plead guilty for every charge!!!!
normally the driver is a good kid! i am shocked at what he has done! a mistake (and what a big one) has been made and anyone involved will never get over this, including the driver....
southend639
says...
2:50pm Sun 8 Mar 09
liamsullivan wrote:i agree Eleanor is a very kind, nice, friendly person and im glad to hear she is hanging in there!
I posted that she had passed away as I had been told by someone who knew her but am really glad it seems like it wasn't true. Hope she pulls through because everyone I know that knows her says she is a wonderful girl.
ameribrit4
says...
3:14pm Sun 8 Mar 09
My heart and thoughts are with all the people affected by this tragedy.
parent100
says...
3:18pm Sun 8 Mar 09
a.gillespie
says...
3:38pm Sun 8 Mar 09
My thoughts go out to the Families Of Injured
girl.
says...
3:49pm Sun 8 Mar 09
No one deserved this, they are all such nice people.
Its wierd because when you hear about a car crash on the news you just ignore it but when its people you know its a whole different
story.. :(
stay strong elenor & jack & everyone else xxxxx
southend639
says...
4:05pm Sun 8 Mar 09
southend2345
says...
4:25pm Sun 8 Mar 09
Jack please get better soon, there are a lot of people supporting you and we all know you can make it too.
xxxxxx
Kristina123
says...
4:27pm Sun 8 Mar 09
You dont realsie things like this can happen so close to someone you know and we take it for granted when we see it on the news. I love you both and you WILL pull thorugh this. xxxxxxxxx
southend639
says...
4:31pm Sun 8 Mar 09
leighmum
says...
4:51pm Sun 8 Mar 09
In response to some of the other comments, we are all too quick to demonise young people these days because only the bad stuff gets reported, and we never hear about all the good in the majority of youngsters. In many ways as a society we have let our children down and yet always expect someone else (Police, council, school) to pick up the pieces. Us adults could learn a lot from young people just as they can learn from us, but unless we reach out to them and bridge the gap instead of criticising them, this will never happen. Never mind "council youth clubs", there are already lots of groups and clubs for children and young people that would be only too glad of more adult volunteers willing to take an interest in the welfare of our young people.
Hope all you who were involved in the incident get all the help and support you need.
Lemon
says...
4:56pm Sun 8 Mar 09
Tweddledumtweedledee
says...
5:20pm Sun 8 Mar 09
AND NO WHEN YOU GET , THORUGH THIS YOU WILL EVERY LOVELY COMMENT ON HERE , AND YOU WILL SMILE ! :D
HANG IN THERE CHICK :p
southend639
says...
5:33pm Sun 8 Mar 09
localsavvy
says...
5:40pm Sun 8 Mar 09
c.uk/gosh_families/g
reetings_card.form
Best wishes to Eleanor.
If you know her, send her a card x
lf3
says...
5:40pm Sun 8 Mar 09
stenodin wrote:with reference to your comments, firstly lets get this into perspective. The driver isnt sitting at home with his feet up today, he is in a police cell, will have had no contact with his family and is probably reliving his actions over and over.
The idiot driving this car will sadly not get what he deserves. No he may not have intended this to happen but it does not excuse him. Another dispicable display of lawless Britian filled with "could not give a **** louts". Yes my Sister in Law is one of the injured's Grand mother. Time this country started locking these morons up for 20 years for this type of offence. Hope you all recover soon. Maybe this lunatic should be sorted out by those outside the law if the law cannot deal with him.
Secondly, lawless Britain, couldnt give a **** louts as you so charmingly put it, is not quite the correct comparison to this situation. The law are and will deal with him, but i am sure nobody can punish him any more than what he is no doubt doing to himself right now.
Thirdly, he will have parents at home, whom are no doubt devastated at the outcome of friday nights events, of which yes, their child is uninjured, but has been the cause of it. They will have feelings, they will be hurting, and they will be blaming themselves for this as much as he is. We all know it was a terrible incident but your comments about those 'outside the law'are completely inappropriate and wont help any of those injured recover any quicker. Nobody is denying that the driver was at fault, but give his family a thought if you cant him!!!
southend639
says...
5:41pm Sun 8 Mar 09
seeviccol
says...
5:44pm Sun 8 Mar 09
lf3 wrote:maybe if you knew him you would have a different opinion, maybe you should focus your attention on 14+ teenage children whos lives have been wrecked by one idiotic kid who will probly sepnd about a week a jail!!! i couldnt give a rat-ar£" about his family my heart goes to the paretns who are sittng at thier childrens bedside, wondering if one day thier scars will disapear and their children will be ok
stenodin wrote: The idiot driving this car will sadly not get what he deserves. No he may not have intended this to happen but it does not excuse him. Another dispicable display of lawless Britian filled with "could not give a **** louts". Yes my Sister in Law is one of the injured's Grand mother. Time this country started locking these morons up for 20 years for this type of offence. Hope you all recover soon. Maybe this lunatic should be sorted out by those outside the law if the law cannot deal with him.with reference to your comments, firstly lets get this into perspective. The driver isnt sitting at home with his feet up today, he is in a police cell, will have had no contact with his family and is probably reliving his actions over and over. Secondly, lawless Britain, couldnt give a **** louts as you so charmingly put it, is not quite the correct comparison to this situation. The law are and will deal with him, but i am sure nobody can punish him any more than what he is no doubt doing to himself right now. Thirdly, he will have parents at home, whom are no doubt devastated at the outcome of friday nights events, of which yes, their child is uninjured, but has been the cause of it. They will have feelings, they will be hurting, and they will be blaming themselves for this as much as he is. We all know it was a terrible incident but your comments about those 'outside the law'are completely inappropriate and wont help any of those injured recover any quicker. Nobody is denying that the driver was at fault, but give his family a thought if you cant him!!!
You can do it Eleanor... Keep Fighting
localsavvy
says...
5:46pm Sun 8 Mar 09
c.uk/gosh_families/g
reetings_card.form
Best wishes to Eleanor.
If you know her, send her a card x
http://www.ich.ucl.a
c.uk/gosh_families/g
reetings_card.form
seeviccol
says...
5:49pm Sun 8 Mar 09
seeviccol wrote:this kid is where he BELONGS for te rest of his life
lf3 wrote:maybe if you knew him you would have a different opinion, maybe you should focus your attention on 14+ teenage children whos lives have been wrecked by one idiotic kid who will probly sepnd about a week a jail!!! i couldnt give a rat-ar£" about his family my heart goes to the paretns who are sittng at thier childrens bedside, wondering if one day thier scars will disapear and their children will be ok You can do it Eleanor... Keep Fightingstenodin wrote: The idiot driving this car will sadly not get what he deserves. No he may not have intended this to happen but it does not excuse him. Another dispicable display of lawless Britian filled with "could not give a **** louts". Yes my Sister in Law is one of the injured's Grand mother. Time this country started locking these morons up for 20 years for this type of offence. Hope you all recover soon. Maybe this lunatic should be sorted out by those outside the law if the law cannot deal with him.with reference to your comments, firstly lets get this into perspective. The driver isnt sitting at home with his feet up today, he is in a police cell, will have had no contact with his family and is probably reliving his actions over and over. Secondly, lawless Britain, couldnt give a **** louts as you so charmingly put it, is not quite the correct comparison to this situation. The law are and will deal with him, but i am sure nobody can punish him any more than what he is no doubt doing to himself right now. Thirdly, he will have parents at home, whom are no doubt devastated at the outcome of friday nights events, of which yes, their child is uninjured, but has been the cause of it. They will have feelings, they will be hurting, and they will be blaming themselves for this as much as he is. We all know it was a terrible incident but your comments about those 'outside the law'are completely inappropriate and wont help any of those injured recover any quicker. Nobody is denying that the driver was at fault, but give his family a thought if you cant him!!!
lf3
says...
5:53pm Sun 8 Mar 09
seeviccol wrote:I know a number of people involved, including the driver, I am apalled at what has happened and hope to dear god that all the children make a full recovery.
lf3 wrote:maybe if you knew him you would have a different opinion, maybe you should focus your attention on 14+ teenage children whos lives have been wrecked by one idiotic kid who will probly sepnd about a week a jail!!! i couldnt give a rat-ar£" about his family my heart goes to the paretns who are sittng at thier childrens bedside, wondering if one day thier scars will disapear and their children will be ok You can do it Eleanor... Keep Fightingstenodin wrote: The idiot driving this car will sadly not get what he deserves. No he may not have intended this to happen but it does not excuse him. Another dispicable display of lawless Britian filled with "could not give a **** louts". Yes my Sister in Law is one of the injured's Grand mother. Time this country started locking these morons up for 20 years for this type of offence. Hope you all recover soon. Maybe this lunatic should be sorted out by those outside the law if the law cannot deal with him.with reference to your comments, firstly lets get this into perspective. The driver isnt sitting at home with his feet up today, he is in a police cell, will have had no contact with his family and is probably reliving his actions over and over. Secondly, lawless Britain, couldnt give a **** louts as you so charmingly put it, is not quite the correct comparison to this situation. The law are and will deal with him, but i am sure nobody can punish him any more than what he is no doubt doing to himself right now. Thirdly, he will have parents at home, whom are no doubt devastated at the outcome of friday nights events, of which yes, their child is uninjured, but has been the cause of it. They will have feelings, they will be hurting, and they will be blaming themselves for this as much as he is. We all know it was a terrible incident but your comments about those 'outside the law'are completely inappropriate and wont help any of those injured recover any quicker. Nobody is denying that the driver was at fault, but give his family a thought if you cant him!!!
Contributors are asked to be respectful with comments left, i do not feel that yours are to any involved
t.scoffield
says...
6:03pm Sun 8 Mar 09
07792510432, text that number please the answer.
holly94
says...
6:08pm Sun 8 Mar 09
KatieAlicia* wrote:i think thats the most stupidest thing to say.
Firstly, this 17 year old driver has nothing to do with any of the other accidents that have happened since the middle of last year. Secondly, not every single 17 year old driver drives irrisponsibly so everybody should get that out of their head. It's pathetic, using his age as an excuse. Personally, I see older people drive around being stupid more than I see younger. Yes, he's 17 and you 'oldies' don't understand much about the younger generation and what they get up to but you drive around ridiculously too. And why exactly were these kids hanging around the street on a friday night? Getting drunk, as we all see the younger kids doing these days. That wouldn't surprise me one bit.
none of this would have happened if it wasnt for the stupidity of the careless driver.
my cousin is in hospital having surgery today due to this horrible accident, but you sit at home and defend the driver.
and age has everything to do with it, you dont see 50 year olds messing about and pretending to drive into people do you?
Fair enough if this boy was doing a decent speed and just driving down the road but he wasnt was he?
he was being a typical 17 year old and theres proof from witnesses for that!
im 15 so im hardly an old person defending them, 17 is too young to drive and this has clearly just prooved it.
southend12345
says...
6:10pm Sun 8 Mar 09
i wish u all the bets, eleanor, jack, poppy and ellen
xxx
dan_the_man
says...
6:19pm Sun 8 Mar 09
I love speed, and the thrill of it, but there are times and places to drive fast. The driver is in the year below me at school and has made a serious error of judgement. What he's done is reeckless and stupid, but no one needs to tell him that. If he wanted to show off his 'driving skills', go and drive like a madman in the country lanes where he's putting his own life at risk and no one elses. There are times for driving fast, but on a residential road where people are on the pavement is not one of them. Of course, beuracracy will intervene meaning the driver will only end up sweeping the streets in community service and not being allowed to drive for a few years. As for the victims of this crime, I just hope everyone comes out O.K because the last thing anyone wants is another teen killed unnecessarily on our streets. My thoughts are with the kids in hospital and their families. No one can know the pain they must be feeling.
theresastar
says...
6:21pm Sun 8 Mar 09
As for Jack and Els, please hang on in there. Your fighters, prove that to the world.
Mediator
says...
6:25pm Sun 8 Mar 09
In resposne to all the people blaming the careless driver, you are in no position to comment as you do not know the facts of the accident. So re-frain from the aggressive comments as it is not really needed.
You dont know why the car hit the kids as you are not the driver and the driver is the only 1 who knows this.
There can be numerous factors involved as to why he came off the road, he may not have been being careless but may have been swerving something in the road... like I said there are many factors and these we do not know.
Also the echo has a habit for incorrect information etc, so dont believe everything you read.
Jemma.x
says...
6:54pm Sun 8 Mar 09
holly94 wrote:KatieAlicia,
KatieAlicia* wrote: Firstly, this 17 year old driver has nothing to do with any of the other accidents that have happened since the middle of last year. Secondly, not every single 17 year old driver drives irrisponsibly so everybody should get that out of their head. It's pathetic, using his age as an excuse. Personally, I see older people drive around being stupid more than I see younger. Yes, he's 17 and you 'oldies' don't understand much about the younger generation and what they get up to but you drive around ridiculously too. And why exactly were these kids hanging around the street on a friday night? Getting drunk, as we all see the younger kids doing these days. That wouldn't surprise me one bit.i think thats the most stupidest thing to say. none of this would have happened if it wasnt for the stupidity of the careless driver. my cousin is in hospital having surgery today due to this horrible accident, but you sit at home and defend the driver. and age has everything to do with it, you dont see 50 year olds messing about and pretending to drive into people do you? Fair enough if this boy was doing a decent speed and just driving down the road but he wasnt was he? he was being a typical 17 year old and theres proof from witnesses for that! im 15 so im hardly an old person defending them, 17 is too young to drive and this has clearly just prooved it.
heartless, and disrespectful
no one desevers to be knocked down my a car, the driver no matter who he is, he could be a lovely person, i dont care!
he was being carless, and stupid in a car, and you just cannot do that,
how can u sit there and say these kids were on the streets drinking! not all kids do that, even so, kids will be kids, they still shouldnt be knocked down! and blaming parents for letting there children out, riducualas, people are entiled to walk home! you claim to say the 'oldies' dont understand the younger generation,
they were all young once, and im pretty sure, teenage crashes are higher than ever! so maybe the younger generation need to learn not to mess around with cars, as they are far to dangerous, and cause a hell of alot of problems lately, maybe not all 17 year old drivers are not irrasponisble, but for the ones who are! they deseve everything coming to them!
my thoughts are will all the familys, i can only imagine what they are feeling at this traumatic time!!
southend16
says...
7:07pm Sun 8 Mar 09
southend16
says...
7:08pm Sun 8 Mar 09
xxx
stenodin
says...
7:16pm Sun 8 Mar 09
lf3 wrote:The law will not deal with this person...because he was driving a car! That is why this country is lawless. One of those injured is a Policeman's son and even he cannot deal with the driver the way he would like to. Recently an entire family were wiped out by a Portuguese HGV driver...how long did he get....18 months and he will not serve that with good behaviour.
seeviccol wrote:I know a number of people involved, including the driver, I am apalled at what has happened and hope to dear god that all the children make a full recovery. Contributors are asked to be respectful with comments left, i do not feel that yours are to any involvedlf3 wrote:maybe if you knew him you would have a different opinion, maybe you should focus your attention on 14+ teenage children whos lives have been wrecked by one idiotic kid who will probly sepnd about a week a jail!!! i couldnt give a rat-ar£" about his family my heart goes to the paretns who are sittng at thier childrens bedside, wondering if one day thier scars will disapear and their children will be ok You can do it Eleanor... Keep Fightingstenodin wrote: The idiot driving this car will sadly not get what he deserves. No he may not have intended this to happen but it does not excuse him. Another dispicable display of lawless Britian filled with "could not give a **** louts". Yes my Sister in Law is one of the injured's Grand mother. Time this country started locking these morons up for 20 years for this type of offence. Hope you all recover soon. Maybe this lunatic should be sorted out by those outside the law if the law cannot deal with him.with reference to your comments, firstly lets get this into perspective. The driver isnt sitting at home with his feet up today, he is in a police cell, will have had no contact with his family and is probably reliving his actions over and over. Secondly, lawless Britain, couldnt give a **** louts as you so charmingly put it, is not quite the correct comparison to this situation. The law are and will deal with him, but i am sure nobody can punish him any more than what he is no doubt doing to himself right now. Thirdly, he will have parents at home, whom are no doubt devastated at the outcome of friday nights events, of which yes, their child is uninjured, but has been the cause of it. They will have feelings, they will be hurting, and they will be blaming themselves for this as much as he is. We all know it was a terrible incident but your comments about those 'outside the law'are completely inappropriate and wont help any of those injured recover any quicker. Nobody is denying that the driver was at fault, but give his family a thought if you cant him!!!
Just to clear one point up mentioned by previous commentors. Many teenagers are very good people. I find may polite, helpful and law abiding. I am 40+ and I like speed to but I would never endanger my life or that of anyone else. If I had done this at his age my parents would have diss-owned me and I would not have blamed them either. I very much hope the young people involved in this make a full recovery.
One thing I will say..it is easy to break the law when you know you will pay hardly any penalty for doing just that. If there were tougher laws in this country maybe this driver would have considered the consequences of his actions before he did this. Thus saving pain and suffering for all those injured, his parents and himself!
localsavvy
says...
7:27pm Sun 8 Mar 09
It must be hard enough for the families and close friends of these people, without petty bickering going on in the background.
Thanks.
Southedlocal99
says...
7:29pm Sun 8 Mar 09
Anonimouth
says...
7:48pm Sun 8 Mar 09
Perhaps I'm being imperceptive, but for a car to hit a tree, then go through a wall, then hit 14 children before they even realised it was coming, it must have been going pretty **** fast.
I know the person that was driving that car, and I've heard how much of an arrogant boy he is, and to be honest have no sympathy whatsoever. To be driving that fast down that small a road is an accident waiting to happen, and I hope not only that the book gets thrown at him, but a car and a wall does too.
To all those who tar us all with the same brush, I have seen many older people who are as dangerous as this child, but the police do not see you as a threat, so focus on these incidents.
Why am I so annoyed about this? Because I know some of these people that have been hurt.
Perhaps the driver should look on the most injured girl's Facebook and see what her status says.
jmgill
says...
7:52pm Sun 8 Mar 09
holly94
says...
8:00pm Sun 8 Mar 09
Anonimouth wrote:what does her status say? :\
To all those who defend the driver. Perhaps I'm being imperceptive, but for a car to hit a tree, then go through a wall, then hit 14 children before they even realised it was coming, it must have been going pretty **** fast. I know the person that was driving that car, and I've heard how much of an arrogant boy he is, and to be honest have no sympathy whatsoever. To be driving that fast down that small a road is an accident waiting to happen, and I hope not only that the book gets thrown at him, but a car and a wall does too. To all those who tar us all with the same brush, I have seen many older people who are as dangerous as this child, but the police do not see you as a threat, so focus on these incidents. Why am I so annoyed about this? Because I know some of these people that have been hurt. Perhaps the driver should look on the most injured girl's Facebook and see what her status says.
thatgirl.
says...
8:24pm Sun 8 Mar 09
from whaat ive heard,
hee shhouldnt have been going thaat fast or eveen trieed to faake crashing intoo them:
its an accident waaiting to haappen maate,
none of theem people deserved thaat,
they didnt doo anything did theey!?
its funny how wheen you see a craash on the news'
you just caarry on with your lifee'
not reaaly noticing,
but wheen its people youu knoo or in yoour street or peoplee whoo your frieends knoo, its just hidiouus,
ifeeel so sorry for thee familiees of the people invoolved,
&ifeel for the peoplee whoo saw there frieends geetting hurt likee thaat,
alsso people should stop spreaading rumoors thaat arrnt truee to theere friends whoo tell theere frieends,
cos its juust horriblee,
if yoou knoo its truee,
tell peoplee,
if not,
keep it shut!
thaankyou,
iam thinking of yoou elenoor,
keep fighting,
so maany peoplee are thinking of yoou,
pull thrrough it,
keeep stroong.
any neews that anyonee knoo's thaat is true,
100%, not made up,
ithiink they should post on here,
to let people knoo,
KEEP YOUR FAITH EVERYONE.
think of them fighting for their livees.
thankyoou,
STAY STRONG PEOPLE.
xxxxxxx
thatgirl.
says...
8:24pm Sun 8 Mar 09
from whaat ive heard,
hee shhouldnt have been going thaat fast or eveen trieed to faake crashing intoo them:
its an accident waaiting to haappen maate,
none of theem people deserved thaat,
they didnt doo anything did theey!?
its funny how wheen you see a craash on the news'
you just caarry on with your lifee'
not reaaly noticing,
but wheen its people youu knoo or in yoour street or peoplee whoo your frieends knoo, its just hidiouus,
ifeeel so sorry for thee familiees of the people invoolved,
&ifeel for the peoplee whoo saw there frieends geetting hurt likee thaat,
alsso people should stop spreaading rumoors thaat arrnt truee to theere friends whoo tell theere frieends,
cos its juust horriblee,
if yoou knoo its truee,
tell peoplee,
if not,
keep it shut!
thaankyou,
iam thinking of yoou elenoor,
keep fighting,
so maany peoplee are thinking of yoou,
pull thrrough it,
keeep stroong.
any neews that anyonee knoo's thaat is true,
100%, not made up,
ithiink they should post on here,
to let people knoo,
KEEP YOUR FAITH EVERYONE.
think of them fighting for their livees.
thankyoou,
STAY STRONG PEOPLE.
xxxxxxx
Young at Heart
says...
8:25pm Sun 8 Mar 09
I would ask that anyone considering posting a message that is not supportive of those involved refrain from doing so. I know I'm not the first to ask, but as the requests have fallen on deaf ears, I have been moved to post my first ever blog!
It is usually unwise to criticise people involved in an incident until the facts have been established. It is certainly not considered good form to use an incident to further wider social or political views within days of the event. If you want to wax lyrical on the rights and wrongs of the "youth of today", or internet security, or law and order, or driving standards, etc, please either find a site dedicated to that topic, or leave a respectful length of time before posting them here (ie several weeks) - and ideally wait until the facts have been established.
I'm 29, but remember how it was to be viewed as a social deviant for having the audacity to be young. There are good people of all ages, so please do not judge the people involved based on their age.
I don't know any of the people involved, but regardless of who has been right or wrong in this, everyone has been through a very traumatic ordeal (those directly involved, witnesses, families, school friends and the emergency services). I wish you all well, and commend you for your courage and bravery in dealing with this. I pray that those who were injured recover soon.
One last response, to Shocked123 - Bluefox and Concerned89 have a valid point on internet security, however you have every right to express your views here. If you and your friends get comfort from exchanging messages on this site, you should feel able to do so at what is clearly a very difficult time for you. Do be wary of giving away too much information, but don’t be put off using this site if it helps you.
Please stay focussed on the priority people! The most important thing at the moment is for those involved to recover and to get the support that they need. Apportioning blame comes later.
Love to all...
nch
says...
8:34pm Sun 8 Mar 09
abcdefg1
says...
8:38pm Sun 8 Mar 09
holly94 wrote:it says,
Anonimouth wrote:what does her status say? :\
To all those who defend the driver. Perhaps I'm being imperceptive, but for a car to hit a tree, then go through a wall, then hit 14 children before they even realised it was coming, it must have been going pretty **** fast. I know the person that was driving that car, and I've heard how much of an arrogant boy he is, and to be honest have no sympathy whatsoever. To be driving that fast down that small a road is an accident waiting to happen, and I hope not only that the book gets thrown at him, but a car and a wall does too. To all those who tar us all with the same brush, I have seen many older people who are as dangerous as this child, but the police do not see you as a threat, so focus on these incidents. Why am I so annoyed about this? Because I know some of these people that have been hurt. Perhaps the driver should look on the most injured girl's Facebook and see what her status says.
'i hope this weekend is a good one' :(
x
L.x
says...
8:39pm Sun 8 Mar 09
abcdefghijkl
says...
8:46pm Sun 8 Mar 09
thatone wrote:i was told that this is not true,
holly94 wrote: i dont want to be the one to say this but i thought you all should know that eleanor has unfortuatley passed away :( RIP xIs this true - its just no one seems to have commented on it and i was unsure. In one breathe that poor girl is still alive, then unfortunately had her life taken from her, but then it reads she still fighting for her life. Can someone put an answer to the exact status to this poor girl! My thoughts go out to you all involved!
apparently she is being kept alive
as hershe is showing signs of improvement !
mazmart
says...
8:46pm Sun 8 Mar 09
The Voice of Reason
says...
8:46pm Sun 8 Mar 09
killers . . .
I see you have already had 2 messages removed, and doubless number 3 is on its' way.
Please refrain from actually naming the driver until such time as this information is released into the public domain. Secondly, if you have information that could be helpful to the police investigation, then it would be more beneficial that you provide such information to the police and not post it in here.
TVoR
southend12345
says...
8:47pm Sun 8 Mar 09
so their keeping her on until tuesday
and if theres more improvement
then she'll have scans for the next few days
and then she'll have some MRA one
and she'll get better HOPEFULLY
KEEP PRAYING
FINGERS CROSSED
mumpetuk
says...
8:48pm Sun 8 Mar 09
shsgyear10
says...
8:49pm Sun 8 Mar 09
pages
again my heart and hope goes out to the families and injured xxxxxxxxxxxx
thatone
says...
8:53pm Sun 8 Mar 09
southend12345
says...
8:55pm Sun 8 Mar 09
so their keeping her on until tuesday
and if theres more improvement
then she'll have scans for the next few days
and then she'll have some MRA one
and she'll get better HOPEFULLY
KEEP PRAYING
FINGERS CROSSED
everyone pray she can do it !
please please pray for her its the leeast we can do.
good luck eleanor and the rest
xxxxx
southend12345
says...
8:56pm Sun 8 Mar 09
so their keeping her on until tuesday
and if theres more improvement
then she'll have scans for the next few days
and then she'll have some MRA one
and she'll get better HOPEFULLY
KEEP PRAYING
FINGERS CROSSED
everyone pray she can do it !
please please pray for her its the leeast we can do.
good luck eleanor and the rest
xxxxx
shsggirl
says...
8:57pm Sun 8 Mar 09
be strong, keep fighting.
love
xxx
jmgill
says...
9:05pm Sun 8 Mar 09
Dear Echo
This user is maliciously using a tragic incident to push his own social views on distraught teenagers and parents. If he is not removed and it published that he has been removed i will contact the media watchdog and open a case against this newspaper. I look forward to a hasty resolution to this mans intentionally harmeful postings. He is banned or us as a user collective will take necessary action.
Thank you for allowing this facility, but careful monitoring has not been undertaken.
Angry User and close friend of a victim.
Jmgill
thatgirl.
says...
9:12pm Sun 8 Mar 09
KEEP FIGHTING ELEANOR.
pray for theem tonigght and hope theey maake it througgh,
xxxxx
stenodin
says...
9:18pm Sun 8 Mar 09
stenodin wrote:This is a democracy where the innocent suffer. So no we will have our say.
lf3 wrote:The law will not deal with this person...because he was driving a car! That is why this country is lawless. One of those injured is a Policeman's son and even he cannot deal with the driver the way he would like to. Recently an entire family were wiped out by a Portuguese HGV driver...how long did he get....18 months and he will not serve that with good behaviour. Just to clear one point up mentioned by previous commentors. Many teenagers are very good people. I find may polite, helpful and law abiding. I am 40+ and I like speed to but I would never endanger my life or that of anyone else. If I had done this at his age my parents would have diss-owned me and I would not have blamed them either. I very much hope the young people involved in this make a full recovery. One thing I will say..it is easy to break the law when you know you will pay hardly any penalty for doing just that. If there were tougher laws in this country maybe this driver would have considered the consequences of his actions before he did this. Thus saving pain and suffering for all those injured, his parents and himself!seeviccol wrote:I know a number of people involved, including the driver, I am apalled at what has happened and hope to dear god that all the children make a full recovery. Contributors are asked to be respectful with comments left, i do not feel that yours are to any involvedlf3 wrote:maybe if you knew him you would have a different opinion, maybe you should focus your attention on 14+ teenage children whos lives have been wrecked by one idiotic kid who will probly sepnd about a week a jail!!! i couldnt give a rat-ar£" about his family my heart goes to the paretns who are sittng at thier childrens bedside, wondering if one day thier scars will disapear and their children will be ok You can do it Eleanor... Keep Fightingstenodin wrote: The idiot driving this car will sadly not get what he deserves. No he may not have intended this to happen but it does not excuse him. Another dispicable display of lawless Britian filled with "could not give a **** louts". Yes my Sister in Law is one of the injured's Grand mother. Time this country started locking these morons up for 20 years for this type of offence. Hope you all recover soon. Maybe this lunatic should be sorted out by those outside the law if the law cannot deal with him.with reference to your comments, firstly lets get this into perspective. The driver isnt sitting at home with his feet up today, he is in a police cell, will have had no contact with his family and is probably reliving his actions over and over. Secondly, lawless Britain, couldnt give a **** louts as you so charmingly put it, is not quite the correct comparison to this situation. The law are and will deal with him, but i am sure nobody can punish him any more than what he is no doubt doing to himself right now. Thirdly, he will have parents at home, whom are no doubt devastated at the outcome of friday nights events, of which yes, their child is uninjured, but has been the cause of it. They will have feelings, they will be hurting, and they will be blaming themselves for this as much as he is. We all know it was a terrible incident but your comments about those 'outside the law'are completely inappropriate and wont help any of those injured recover any quicker. Nobody is denying that the driver was at fault, but give his family a thought if you cant him!!!
I stand by what I say in defence of the injured. I am directly connected to this and I know many of the facts. His parents bought him the car. He abused it's power. Shame we cannot buy new limbs for the injured. Looking at the damage to the car, any resonable person can see it was being driven too fast. For the record my sister in law's Grandson was on the bonnet of that car. So spare a thought for her and his mum and dad and for his newly born sister, just days old. People who know this driver have now come out to say what an idiot he is before and after the incident, what a good reflection on parenting!
evilc
says...
9:22pm Sun 8 Mar 09
There is nothing anyone can say at this moment that will truthfully help anyone be it the youngsters or the driver.
The parents of the two seriously injured my thoughts and prayers as a parent are with you.
Hopefully they have age and health on their side to fully recover.
The Voice of Reason
says...
9:23pm Sun 8 Mar 09
jmgill wrote:While i respect the fact that your emotions may be running high with the fact that one or more of your close friends have been effected by this accident, using threatening remarks against The Echo carries no water whatsoever. I have read the individuals latest message and while its' content borders libelous, it is not your call to demand that any action be taken against him - especially if anything he has posted has been quoted from a media source (as he has claimed)
Southendman....this is a copy of the complaint i have lodged against you...I hope you will read this and never comment again as this would be the curteous thing to do.. Dear Echo This user is maliciously using a tragic incident to push his own social views on distraught teenagers and parents. If he is not removed and it published that he has been removed i will contact the media watchdog and open a case against this newspaper. I look forward to a hasty resolution to this mans intentionally harmeful postings. He is banned or us as a user collective will take necessary action. Thank you for allowing this facility, but careful monitoring has not been undertaken. Angry User and close friend of a victim. Jmgill
If the powers-that-be at the Echo deem his message to be inappropriate, or indeed you are against the content of such a message, there is the facility to report it to a site administrator, without the need to threaten action against the newspaper or its' website.
TVoR
southend639
says...
9:32pm Sun 8 Mar 09
seeviccol
says...
9:41pm Sun 8 Mar 09
jmgill wrote:well said... focus on those suffering at this... southend man your fine sitting at home on your computer... teenageers and paretns have heart renching moments going on for them...
Southendman....this is a copy of the complaint i have lodged against you...I hope you will read this and never comment again as this would be the curteous thing to do.. Dear Echo This user is maliciously using a tragic incident to push his own social views on distraught teenagers and parents. If he is not removed and it published that he has been removed i will contact the media watchdog and open a case against this newspaper. I look forward to a hasty resolution to this mans intentionally harmeful postings. He is banned or us as a user collective will take necessary action. Thank you for allowing this facility, but careful monitoring has not been undertaken. Angry User and close friend of a victim. Jmgill
southendgirl14
says...
9:42pm Sun 8 Mar 09
its so sad what has happened and my thoughts are with her family and i hope and pray that she pulls through. my thoughts are also with jack and his family and everyone else who was unfortunate enough to be there when it happened. STAY STRONG ELS AND JACK! we are all behind you and love you
xxxxx
southendgirl14
says...
9:55pm Sun 8 Mar 09
stenodin wrote:stenodin and holly,
holly94 wrote: one of my family members was in the accident and i have been told by him that it is true that she has died. because they have been told :\ so im only going by what he told me, & he wouldnt lie about something like that! but maybe they havnt turned it off yet and they have just been told that its likely she will not make it or something? im not sure but i got told she had passed away :\ hopefully im wrong though!Holly, I hope it is the wrong info. I too was told tis earlier and I am praying it to be wrong. Sometimes we do get crossed wires or misinformation. Do not take to heart the earlier comments I have seen. Lets just pray for the best outcome here.
just like you two i have also heard that els' machines have been turned off :/ i hope that this isnt true and i agree with stenodin that sometimes peoples wires do get crossed. however if anyone does here this bad news is true then please could you say. we all need to stay strong for her els and jack.
xxx
seeviccol
says...
10:03pm Sun 8 Mar 09
southendgirl14 wrote:although im sure everyone is comletely worried about els stop writing if you believe she has past until it is from a factual source...many things are going around, currently on facebook they decided not to turn the machine off as she showed improvement..so lets stop the chinese whispers and just wish them both well, keep our fingers crossed and pray for them xxx
stenodin wrote:stenodin and holly, just like you two i have also heard that els' machines have been turned off :/ i hope that this isnt true and i agree with stenodin that sometimes peoples wires do get crossed. however if anyone does here this bad news is true then please could you say. we all need to stay strong for her els and jack. xxxholly94 wrote: one of my family members was in the accident and i have been told by him that it is true that she has died. because they have been told :\ so im only going by what he told me, & he wouldnt lie about something like that! but maybe they havnt turned it off yet and they have just been told that its likely she will not make it or something? im not sure but i got told she had passed away :\ hopefully im wrong though!Holly, I hope it is the wrong info. I too was told tis earlier and I am praying it to be wrong. Sometimes we do get crossed wires or misinformation. Do not take to heart the earlier comments I have seen. Lets just pray for the best outcome here.
The Voice of Reason
says...
10:06pm Sun 8 Mar 09
jmgill wrote:Maybe it's because i have no association with this incident that i am able to take an impartial view of all that is being said in here . . . as for getting 'high and mighty' what will you do exactly if and when the Echo do not bow to your demands . . . stamp your feet like a 5 year old ??
Voice of Reason it was no threat it was a promise! I never threatened i was making a statement. and i think you should consider my motives before deaming my actions as being over the top that was emailed to the site administrator and dont paitronise me saying my emotions are running high. This southendman has got away with enough. So dont get all high and mighty and atempt to disapline me. He has offended and upset alot of people. I posted my letter so he would stop asap and perhaps apologise. just three or so comments above my post he had a go at another kid...perhaps your support would be in the greater interest of the people that are grieving and taken blows from this man?
I am not defending what he posted for one minute, but he has freedom of speech and should he decide to exercise this right, then it is his choice. As i said before, should you or anyone else take exception to his messages, report it to the relevent authorities, rather than trying to take the moral high ground.
As for the 'promise', i reiterate that you are not on strong ground - threatening action against The Echo because they won't act as you want them to is rather disappointing in so much as it would prove futile.
For the families of those effected by this tragic incident, i wish you and your loved ones a full and speedy recovery.
TVoR
southendgirl14
says...
10:07pm Sun 8 Mar 09
seeviccol
says...
10:10pm Sun 8 Mar 09
southendgirl14 wrote:couldnt agree with you more. every1 needs to group together and keep evrythin crossed and pray that she continues to improve. keep going jack and els you will get through this
els is showing improvements and ive heard this from a family member. we need to stop listening to rumours and believe they will pull through this
doyoufeel100
says...
10:13pm Sun 8 Mar 09
southendgirl14
says...
10:13pm Sun 8 Mar 09
southend12345
says...
10:18pm Sun 8 Mar 09
and southendgirl 14 im so glad to hear that.
good luck jack els ellen and the rest.
xx
southendgal
says...
10:19pm Sun 8 Mar 09
doyoufeel100
says...
10:19pm Sun 8 Mar 09
Radar Ears
says...
10:28pm Sun 8 Mar 09
I keep coming back here every so often, to read the comments, hoping that I will hear some good news.
However, there is something that is nagging at me and I have got to say it.
There have been lots of posts saying such as " I know so and so" and "it is my sister in law's grand-daughter".
One post said they were returning from a birthday do, another also said that they were walking home, a third said that they were standing in a front garden of a house when the car crashed into a tree, then the wall, then hit the kids.
It can't be both can it?
So if you don't really know what happened, then please don't air your opinions as to what you've HEARD has happened.
If you were not there, then you don't know what happened.
Do not jump on the bandwagon just to speculate please.
Then there have been two separate posts saying the young lady "Eleanor" has passed away, then these comments have been retracted and we are told that she has not passed away.
Thank God it appears that it is not true, but if it was, it is NOT YOUR PLACE to post such a thing.
By the very nature of people, there are some that always want to be first with the news, even if they don't realise it, even when it involves a terrible tragedy, such has happened to these kids.
Please bear in mind that at any time, the parents, brothers and sisters of these injured kids could look on here and to see incorrect messages stating that their loved one has passed away when it is not true would be extremely distressing for them.
seeviccol
says...
10:46pm Sun 8 Mar 09
Southendman wrote:stop argueing there are two young children in critical condidtion fighting for their right to survive...families praying that thier children make it to live thier lives as they should...teenagers praying thier friends make it and all you can do is argue are you kidding put your differences aside and pray for jack eleanor, ellen and all those affected as their the ones that matter
jmgill wrote: Voice of Reason it was no threat it was a promise! I never threatened i was making a statement. and i think you should consider my motives before deaming my actions as being over the top that was emailed to the site administrator and dont paitronise me saying my emotions are running high. This southendman has got away with enough. So dont get all high and mighty and atempt to disapline me. He has offended and upset alot of people. I posted my letter so he would stop asap and perhaps apologise. just three or so comments above my post he had a go at another kid...perhaps your support would be in the greater interest of the people that are grieving and taken blows from this man?Last time I checked in this country there is a freedom of speech mate! What I have said was clearly about teenagers in general in any town in this country and the other comments about the driver are no worser than many many people have said on here. Yes the bit about drinking and taking drugs is a guess and we will see in the next week or when this comes to court. If the echo bans me I will be making a complaint of my own to the press regularity body about freedom of speech. I think if you are involved in some way with this case you should be complaining about the person who said one of the girls was dead when she wasnt.
Trainman
says...
10:55pm Sun 8 Mar 09
Such a pity that one particular Sunday Rag HAD to exagerate on the amount of those sadly injured and claim there to have been 60, with 14 seriously. I will NOT buy that Rag again.
mumgc
says...
10:58pm Sun 8 Mar 09
My son was there on Friday evening and was thankfully not physically injured but like a lot of the other kids saw terrible sights that probably most of us parents have never seen in our lifetimes. He and those not knocked down waded in and helped in any way possible - comforting friends that were dazed and injured, ringing parents and directing them to where they sons and daughters lay etc. From everything I've heard they behaved sensibly and very bravely at the awful sights they saw.
I would like to send my love and prayers to all the boys and girls physically injured along with all their families, and for all those who witnessed this carnage and wish them all a complete recovery. xxxxx
jmgill
says...
11:11pm Sun 8 Mar 09
As someone who has spent two days in hospital with bruised and battered friends i find your judgement of me as extremely ignorant and selfminded. What is your agenda here TvoR? why do find it your job to set everyone straight and become this forums judge and jury? i am merely asking no offence intended.
I bet TVoR you are a good man i can tell and your intentions are good. but if you have no association with anything to do with this incident i do not see why you find it necessary to self appoint yourself the Voice of Reason. why not just post some well-wishes like everyone else?
I feel that it is my duty over and above the sight administrators to protect these grieving kids cause they are my friends, one of them my best friend. So perhaps your tell it like it is judgements are just you forcing your opinion on me and the suffering people who use this forum perhaps thats why you have taken offence to my anger at southendman?
I am not here to attack anyone but i will not stand for a man being nasty to kids...
you are setting the wrong man straight here TVoR. I am well within my rights to complain whether my feelings are ignored or not does not mean i was wrong to complain. you are complaining about me TVoR and i dont believe this even concerns you.
To all the kids that been together through this let me say that you are all heroes. There are going to be people on this forum with weird and some nasty agendas just ignore them and remain positive you guys are an inspiration to us all. May you all rest well and never experience this heartache like this again!
Jprice 92
says...
11:20pm Sun 8 Mar 09
i was throw over the garden fence
i know what happend (dont ask me)
please may people who wernt there share stories i have recently heard alot of wrong information
thats all i ask
and
my respect for all my friends that were injured
xxx
shsgyear10
says...
11:54pm Sun 8 Mar 09
ELS I CANT SAY HOW MUCH YOU MEAN TO ME AND HOW MUCH I AM PRAYING AND HOPING YOU ARE GOING TO BE ALRIGHT, EVERYONE IS HERE FOR YOU, YOU ARE SUCH AN AMAZING BEAUTIFUL GIRL. NOT A BAD HAIR ON YOUR HEAD. KIND WORDS IS ALL YOU SAY WE ALL LOVE YOU SO MUCH
JACK AND ELLEN EVERYONE IS PRAYING AND HOPING FOR YOU, WE ALL LOVE YOU.
I HAVE NO IDEAD WHAT THE FAMILIES ARE GOING THROUGH BUT THERE IS HOPE AND THEY ARE ALL INCREDIBLE FIGHTERS
KEEP FIGHTING, BE STRONG, WE LOVE YOU AND HOLD ON, YOU DON'T DESERVE ANY OF THIS,
PLEASE KEEP FIGHTING WE LOVE YOU
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
J Southend
says...
12:14am Mon 9 Mar 09
shsb2004
says...
12:23am Mon 9 Mar 09
please dont leave us, dig in deep and pull thru.
jack, just think of V fest, all the pints ill buy you, just get thru this please :(
els, stay strong and make a speedy recovery.
everyone at both schools is praying and doing all they can for you, please come back to us soon
i have extreme admiration and love for both of these
school jus wont be the same for the next couple of weeks :(
a mum
says...
8:43am Mon 9 Mar 09
M99SS3
says...
9:08am Mon 9 Mar 09
I will not go on, only request that you think before submitting anything other than support for these children and their families or messages concerning the bravery exhibited by many of the walking wounded who provided comfort and support for their friends who when they need it most, a maturity beyond their years and above many comments that I have read on this forum.
smee
says...
9:35am Mon 9 Mar 09
seeviccol
says...
9:42am Mon 9 Mar 09
Keep strong Els and Jack you can pull throught this
XXXXXX
JoeJohn
says...
9:46am Mon 9 Mar 09
Your comments have been constructive and educated and it makes me proud to see the younger generation - who ALWAYS get a rough time in the media, and especially on here - present their views in such an informed and articulate way.
My thoughts are with the injured victims and with you guys too.
This site always attracts the mind numbing Daily Mail reader type views and posters who only put things to cause controversy - I'm surprised that no-one has aksed if the driver was black,bosnian,refuge
e,drug addict,immigrant etc. That's all these knuckle scrapers focus on.
I sincerely hope you all recover from this hideous accident and move on to achieve great things - yuo sound like great young adults.
Winston Smith
says...
10:01am Mon 9 Mar 09
dan_the_man wrote:While I agree with a lot of your post, the idea that young drivers should 'go and drive like a madman in the country lanes where he's putting his own life at risk and no one elses' to get their thrills, is completely wrong and a perfect example of why many teens are too immature and inexperienced to be permitted a driving licence.
Unfortunately, it appears this story has just confirmed everybody's thoughts that teenagers are out of control. As an 18 year old boy who has been driving for a year, I find it astounding that people can make such general and vague comments about 'teenagers and cars not mixing'. Does every adult not realise they were once teens and not everyone of them drove round with halo's above their head. Everyone's made mistakes at the wheel, and I've winessed some pretty stupid things from 'mature, grown-up adults'. Of course I'm no angel, but I find it incredible people can be such hypocrites.
I love speed, and the thrill of it, but there are times and places to drive fast. The driver is in the year below me at school and has made a serious error of judgement. What he's done is reeckless and stupid, but no one needs to tell him that. If he wanted to show off his 'driving skills', go and drive like a madman in the country lanes where he's putting his own life at risk and no one elses. There are times for driving fast, but on a residential road where people are on the pavement is not one of them. Of course, beuracracy will intervene meaning the driver will only end up sweeping the streets in community service and not being allowed to drive for a few years. As for the victims of this crime, I just hope everyone comes out O.K because the last thing anyone wants is another teen killed unnecessarily on our streets. My thoughts are with the kids in hospital and their families. No one can know the pain they must be feeling.
There are many other users of country lanes, and many more hazards: cyclists, walkers, agricultural vehicles, horse riders etc. and any one of them could be round the next blind bend the teen in their speeding car goes round.
The lesson is simple, there is NO place for wreckless speeding and driving on ANY public road. If you want to drive at excessive speeds then go to an open track day at a race track.
KevinR
says...
10:41am Mon 9 Mar 09
Reading this enormous thread I am struck by many things:
1. Well done to those teenagers (and neighbours) who used first aid and compassion to aid the injured. You did them, yourselves and your school proud. (Mr F would have been proud).
2. Thanks to all the emergency workers who dealt with the incident. Even they sound shocked by a scene worthy of a bombsite.
3. Kind thoughts and prayers for the injured, especially those still in hospital. And all those shocked by events. Please all remember that the bystanders may need as much support as the direct victims.
4. If the driver PROVES to be culpable then as a parent I can have little compassion for him. I understand (and somewhat share) others anger and confusion. 5. We have to wait for the FULL ACCURATE story to emerge, but superficially the physical evidence is not in the drivers favour. Small NEW car, small engine, huge crash, unpleasant rumours about driving. Even the damage to the car windscreen/roof (caused I presume by impacts with victims) suggests that this in no trivial driving error gone wrong.
To jmgill and the others who have injured friends - you are in our thoughts too. I can hear how hurt you are. I hope your friends mend as quickly as possible.
PS: Well done also to those who visited the hospital and for their courtesy when there.
bigsister
says...
11:11am Mon 9 Mar 09
The actions and consequences to the driver must be dealt with by the police and a court, not people who obviously have nothing better to do than comment on things they know nothing about.
If you have nothing constructive or supportive to say to the families involved then keep your comments to youselves.
My thoughts are with ALL the families affected by this.
cas p
says...
11:59am Mon 9 Mar 09
vangebasildon
says...
12:03pm Mon 9 Mar 09
southendgal wrote:What a lovely message this is, well done southendgal
As one who witnessed the aftermath of this on Friday, I would like to praise those youngsters at the scene, who despite having witnessed such a horrific incident showed amazing maturity and bravery in assisting those who were injured until sufficient emergency serivces arrived on scene - you should be very proud of yourselves. My thoughts are with all of those involved and their friends and families.
Bosniavet
says...
12:16pm Mon 9 Mar 09
I must also say that it is very fortunate so many "off-duty" medical professionals were on hand to help, their actions, it appears, helped save lives.
jmgill
says...
12:51pm Mon 9 Mar 09
M99SS3 wrote:My feelings exactly...i just think you have better expressed my own feelings. Thank you for being the true voice of reason. Im lucky my close friends will all make a complete physical recovery, but i as a friend will see the phychological affect play its self out for years. These kids are honestly the best bunch of girls and boys and friends i could have. thank you m99ss3.
I am total disgusted that this forum is not controlled by any mediator, there have been inappropriate post by persons who have no knowledge of the evenings events or those following with regards to the state of the poor children who have been admitted to hospital and their families, as we live in a close community many are friends, associates or family to many of us we are still living this devastation hour by hour waiting for the return of these poor children to their parents – Please cease positing rumours concerning the state of Els and give a thought to the poor children who witnessed this incident, it was not an episode of casualty, this is real life and it has damaging effects on their psychological state.
I will not go on, only request that you think before submitting anything other than support for these children and their families or messages concerning the bravery exhibited by many of the walking wounded who provided comfort and support for their friends who when they need it most, a maturity beyond their years and above many comments that I have read on this forum.
I see the echo has removed the very offensive posts that were here over the weekend. If i came accross in my rebutal to those offensive posts in a offensive manner myself i apologise i have had the worst weekend of my life and i am a little over emotional and young. Truth is im battling to deal with this. So when i came on here and saw the abuse of hurt friends and kids i was out-raged. thank you echo for considering the removal of the offensive elements. lets turn this into a place of love and support.tahnks to everyone who has kind words i can tell you my friends hear your uplifting voices and it helps them so much.
seeviccol
says...
1:19pm Mon 9 Mar 09
its time to focus on whats important. Eleanor, Jack, Ellen, those who are still in southend hospital, those who were minorly injured and the ones who were at thier friends side through a time that would have been devastating. All of you have so many people behind you who know you can get through this.
Best of luck to all of you, stay strong and keep fighting
All My Love
XXXXXX
anon156
says...
2:14pm Mon 9 Mar 09
mum144
says...
2:34pm Mon 9 Mar 09
School (shsb) today, he tells me has been very sad and i imagine it will be sad for a long long time. The pastoral care being offered at school is excellent and will be far reaching.
This is a vital time for these youngsters in their education who will sit their GCSE's in a few months. A moments madness is going to have a life long effect.
To all those invloved and the friends and families of those involved, stay strong to support each other.
Jack, you are a lovely boy and i think about you all day. I pray that you will make a full recovery and we will see you scoring again!
God be with you and keep you safe.
thorpe bay 2
says...
2:40pm Mon 9 Mar 09
barbara7
says...
3:04pm Mon 9 Mar 09
My thoughts are also with the young driver who must be reposonsible for his actions - even though they appear to have been stupid and not meant.
May I thank the medical people who helped at the scene your actions must have helped to keep the children alive,well done.
To the two young people fighting for life and to your families - Keep fighting,keep strong and God bless xxx
Barbara7
LocalBoy
says...
3:34pm Mon 9 Mar 09
gerardr
says...
4:03pm Mon 9 Mar 09
There really should be a proper deterrant to this type of driving. An automatic 5 year min ban to anyone whose reckless causes an accident may help. When I was that age, and just passed my test, 5yrs would have felt like forever.
Sam-Southend
says...
5:03pm Mon 9 Mar 09
My thoughts and prayers go out to the family at such a horrible time and we're all hoping for the best. Stay Strong, the whole of Southend are behind you.
Theres no point in finding someone to blame. Think of Eleanor, Jack, their families and all those involved.
I'm sorry that the witness' had to see what they did and i can't really think of anything to say to them.
The driver will live with that guilt forever.
Sorry seems the only word to describe something so horrible and sad.
I know none of the people involved but i want to thank EVERYONE that helped out.
Be Strong
You can do it!
xxx
Robb
says...
5:11pm Mon 9 Mar 09
NOTE FROM ECHO NEWSDESK:
Contributors are asked to be respectful with comments left below and bear in mind the feelings of families and friends affected by the incident
My thoughts are with the victims, the accused and all families involved.
Southenddarling
says...
5:18pm Mon 9 Mar 09
Feel so sorry for the people who were so badly hurt. I'm hoping they get more stronger soon.
shsggirl
says...
5:36pm Mon 9 Mar 09
so many have been left in a state of shock and unknowing.
we all need to stay strong for each other and most of all for the our injured friends and their families.
whether we knew the ones fighting for their lives well or just to smile at, its touched us all.
the trauma suffered by the ones who saw this awful event has left us all cold.
praying that everyone hurt by this horrific incident pulls through (whether the scars are physical or mental).
we need our friends better.
hold on, keep fighting
our thoughts and our prayers are with you.
xxxxxxxxxx
thatgirl.
says...
6:02pm Mon 9 Mar 09
all our thoughts are with you guys,♥
keep fighting,
xxxxx
Dy@Shoebury
says...
6:19pm Mon 9 Mar 09
This group of young people are the most supportive and close group I have ever come across. I know many of the people involved. There has been a lot of visits to the hospital and to each others houses. Their maturity, support and love for one another astounds me. Being there for each other can help carry you all through this tragic time. A huge pat on the back for these young people. I'm proud to know you all. Rob's Mum
Young at Heart
says...
6:48pm Mon 9 Mar 09
I would particularly like to praise the young people involved and their friends for the amazing support they are showing to each other, and their maturity in their posts. Thank you to those who have already highlighted that in their messages above.
All those involved are in our thoughts - there are people thinking of you and praying for you who you have never met, and you may never realise how many people are rooting for you all to pull through.
Stay strong, and keep being there for each other. Speedy recovery to those who were hurt.
evilc
says...
7:10pm Mon 9 Mar 09
Also I find it reassuring that the young people that have entered comments are obviously from good families and have shown remarkable maturity in such devastating circumstances.
It makes me happy to know that these youngsters will be representative of the generation that will be paying my pension, which is reassuring after the continual reporting of bad behaviour of the 1% mindless criminal minority who normally cause 99% of the trouble.
Your Parents and School should be proud of the comments made on this column.
reallifegirl
says...
7:30pm Mon 9 Mar 09
xxx
shsgnerd
says...
7:32pm Mon 9 Mar 09
Els, Ellen and poppy are in my yr at school and everyone is praying for them and being extremely respectful.
I hope that all those with minor injuries or no injuries but the vision in their minds (like my best friend) can get getter as well and for them to know that we are praying for them guys too!!
xxxxxxx
hopefulgirl
says...
7:51pm Mon 9 Mar 09
the amount of get well wishes is astonishing and proves that at times of distress, we can rely on support from one another as human beings to bring hope, even into the most distressing of situations.
what has happened in the past few days can only be described as a shockingly tragic accident & i think i can say for all, that our hearts go out to those who were involved and to those connected to them.
may i also make a more direct plee to eleanor, as this is a girl i know more personally.
the emotion and support she has provoked is truly heart warming. anyone who has ever met her can say that she is a beautiful character with a kind heart. she positively glows happiness and her parents must be proud to call her theres. i hope that she can make it through this and come back to us.
may i also add, that if you are merely on here to argue and squabble amongst yourselves as to whose opinion is right, find somewhere else to do it.
this is a place to send well wishes on to those involved, not to argue about the size of the engine in the car involved or how teenagers 'get up to no good'. as a teen, i am appalled by how some adults are responding to this story. you may think that we go out every night and get as drunk as we can and do you know what, some of us do. there are also some teenagers that shoot people and rob them, however in this situation you must not compare those involved to stereotypical youths but to average people. you hear a story of a young driver hitting some kids and you assume he was under the influence, you have no idea! then you find out how many people were involved and seem to think it was some sort of gang that lurks around the streets late at night, instead of a group of teenagers celebrating a 16th birthday party.
i cannot begin to express how utterly disgusted some people make me feel when they make assumptions on people i am proud enough to call friends.
i hope that some people will start to realise that this situation is not now focused on how fast the car was going or how the people involved were on the street at quarter to ten but it begins to simplify the situation to children being hurt and giving them the support they need to recover.
as i type this they lie in hospital beds yet some still focus on the incident that got them there.
i send all my love to those involved, you are an inspiration.
blah_man
says...
7:53pm Mon 9 Mar 09
im a young driver. passed a year ago and havent had one crash yet.
iv seen many more irisponsible older drivers than young ones
if older driver were more responsible and set a better example to young driver there wouldnt be as many accidents as there is.
prehaps you shuld have to take a test evry 10 year jus to remind you of how to drive proply?
Westcliff Girl
says...
8:01pm Mon 9 Mar 09
I feel for the friends + family.
Just keep strong were all here and are in all of our thoughts.
x
Young at Heart
says...
8:08pm Mon 9 Mar 09
All you young ladies and gents involved have acted with great dignity and can be proud of yourselves. Unfortunately, there will always be people who, frankly, don't know how to behave and who will use any excuse to give a speech on their pet topic. This is clearly neither the time or the place for that bahaviour, and I would encourage you and your friends to ingore these posts - the people who placed them are not worth losing any sleep over.
Just a quick note too to JMGill - you shouldn't feel the need to apologise for your posts. It's admirable that you are willing to apologise, but if you cant allow your emotions to guide what you write in these circumstances, then when can you?! Hope this forum is helping you and your friends to cope with the situation.
Love to all
opalina
says...
8:26pm Mon 9 Mar 09
It's easy to blame someone's age, even though the vast majority of accidents are caused by other factors.
It's easy to find fault in others but never ourselves. Why? because we have all so far been lucky in our mistakes!
It's understandable to rant and want justice and blame all of societies ills on the young and seek answers that may not be there.
The truth, what ever that may be will out! and justice will be served, but whatever that may be will be nothing compared to the judgment the driver will put on himself. He will live with the concequences for the rest of his life!
Lets focus on the victims and their families and prey they have the strength to deal with whatever the consequenses are.
A true tragedy for all involved! My thoughts and heartfelt wishes are with you all!
shoeburymum
says...
8:47pm Mon 9 Mar 09
theirfriend603
says...
8:49pm Mon 9 Mar 09
my friend laughs by my side
hes cool, composed and at his best
so funny that i cried
I feel a breeze across my face
his arm locked in with mine
so cheerful of the night ahead
we'd lost track of the time
I feel a breeze across my face
a flash without much sign
and like an angel i watch you soar
your wings they flap in time
i feel the breeze across my face
my friend looks in my eyes
hes cold and hurt and somewhere else
and in the dirt we cry.
*get well soon both of you..it aint the same without you*
SHSG Girls
says...
8:53pm Mon 9 Mar 09
s.r.
says...
8:55pm Mon 9 Mar 09
Many of you have simply 'got away with it'. Maybe young drivers should be shown some shock scenarios before being allowed on the road.
Pointing the finger will not help now but prayer can.So sorry for all involved. Will keep praying. x
s.r.
says...
8:55pm Mon 9 Mar 09
Many of you have simply 'got away with it'. Maybe young drivers should be shown some shock scenarios before being allowed on the road.
Pointing the finger will not help now but prayer can.So sorry for all involved. Will keep praying. x
s.r.
says...
8:55pm Mon 9 Mar 09
Many of you have simply 'got away with it'. Maybe young drivers should be shown some shock scenarios before being allowed on the road.
Pointing the finger will not help now but prayer can.So sorry for all involved. Will keep praying. x
s.r.
says...
8:55pm Mon 9 Mar 09
Many of you have simply 'got away with it'. Maybe young drivers should be shown some shock scenarios before being allowed on the road.
Pointing the finger will not help now but prayer can.So sorry for all involved. Will keep praying. x
s.r.
says...
8:55pm Mon 9 Mar 09
Many of you have simply 'got away with it'. Maybe young drivers should be shown some shock scenarios before being allowed on the road.
Pointing the finger will not help now but prayer can.So sorry for all involved. Will keep praying. x
SHSG Girls
says...
9:05pm Mon 9 Mar 09
I go to shsg/ yr 9 and i know that everyone there is rooting for Eleanor and others to get better, whether they knew them well or not.
It was a very emotional day today , especially for those close to Eleanor and she is being surrounded by prayer and hope that she recovers.
I think that some should stop making accusations before there is an official outcome. All the victims that have been affected, physically or mentally, are the people we should be concentrating on right now, as they are the ones that need the attention.
Wishes and love Eleanor and everyone else affected !
xxxxx
babelfish
says...
9:15pm Mon 9 Mar 09
southend639
says...
9:29pm Mon 9 Mar 09
Southendman
says...
9:53pm Mon 9 Mar 09
!!!
soul man
says...
10:00pm Mon 9 Mar 09
BrushLover
says...
10:04pm Mon 9 Mar 09
5 years ago, when i was 20, my brother was hit by a car in a hit and run. (thankfully he was mostly ok,though still has ongoing problems) for a long time this affected me, but wanted to reiterate that time is a great healer, and you will get through this with the right support.
it does get easier,i promise.
all my best wishes to you all, and i too commend the friends of those involved for their mature handling of the situation.
to the person who wrote the 'today' message; it was truly beautiful, and brought more than a tear to my eye!
we are all thinking of you xx
Southendman
says...
10:06pm Mon 9 Mar 09
opalina wrote:Actually it is! Look above at the title of this section 'YOUR SAY'
Southendman wrote: May I say thank you to the Echo on behalf of the Labour Government for fully carrying out their policy of banning free speech and not wanting to talk about the social ills of this country turning it into the dump it is at present. Gordon Brown will make sure the Echo editor gets his knighthood!!!!!!!!!! !!!Free speech is fine, in it's place but this isn't it!!
charlie croker
says...
10:12pm Mon 9 Mar 09
evilc wrote:I rarely agree with Evilc's comments but find myself writing that this is a very eloquent response and I agree wholeheartedly with his sentiment.
Firstly I would like to thank the Echo for allowing this comments column to continue it actually allows some of the friends and colleagues of the injured to vent their feelings which is a good thing in a such tragic consequences for people so young.
Also I find it reassuring that the young people that have entered comments are obviously from good families and have shown remarkable maturity in such devastating circumstances.
It makes me happy to know that these youngsters will be representative of the generation that will be paying my pension, which is reassuring after the continual reporting of bad behaviour of the 1% mindless criminal minority who normally cause 99% of the trouble.
Your Parents and School should be proud of the comments made on this column.
I hope that all those involved make a full recovery.
opalina
says...
10:13pm Mon 9 Mar 09
Southendman wrote:In the context of a forum I would agree...wholehearted
opalina wrote:Actually it is! Look above at the title of this section 'YOUR SAY'Southendman wrote: May I say thank you to the Echo on behalf of the Labour Government for fully carrying out their policy of banning free speech and not wanting to talk about the social ills of this country turning it into the dump it is at present. Gordon Brown will make sure the Echo editor gets his knighthood!!!!!!!!!! !!!Free speech is fine, in it's place but this isn't it!!
ly!! But in this instance anyone with any sort sort of empathy for the family would pt aside their political agendas for this thread and keep it for another day. It's highly inappropriat IMHO..feel free to dissagree though...free speech and all that!!
melf
says...
10:40pm Mon 9 Mar 09
melf
says...
10:49pm Mon 9 Mar 09
theirfriend603 wrote:You carry on writing these they are wonderfull and they bring tears to my eyes they will also make you feel a little bit better to write down what you are feeling it is a release
I feel a breeze across my face my friend laughs by my side hes cool, composed and at his best so funny that i cried I feel a breeze across my face his arm locked in with mine so cheerful of the night ahead we'd lost track of the time I feel a breeze across my face a flash without much sign and like an angel i watch you soar your wings they flap in time i feel the breeze across my face my friend looks in my eyes hes cold and hurt and somewhere else and in the dirt we cry. *get well soon both of you..it aint the same without you*
I would like to say well done to all of the teenagers who carried on with helping their friends you are a credit to your family and friends as you put them first in a situation that must of been hard for all of you x
jadi
says...
11:10pm Mon 9 Mar 09
holly94 wrote:this is directed to KatieAlicia by the way.
KatieAlicia* wrote: Firstly, this 17 year old driver has nothing to do with any of the other accidents that have happened since the middle of last year. Secondly, not every single 17 year old driver drives irrisponsibly so everybody should get that out of their head. It's pathetic, using his age as an excuse. Personally, I see older people drive around being stupid more than I see younger. Yes, he's 17 and you 'oldies' don't understand much about the younger generation and what they get up to but you drive around ridiculously too. And why exactly were these kids hanging around the street on a friday night? Getting drunk, as we all see the younger kids doing these days. That wouldn't surprise me one bit.i think thats the most stupidest thing to say. none of this would have happened if it wasnt for the stupidity of the careless driver. my cousin is in hospital having surgery today due to this horrible accident, but you sit at home and defend the driver. and age has everything to do with it, you dont see 50 year olds messing about and pretending to drive into people do you? Fair enough if this boy was doing a decent speed and just driving down the road but he wasnt was he? he was being a typical 17 year old and theres proof from witnesses for that! im 15 so im hardly an old person defending them, 17 is too young to drive and this has clearly just prooved it.
you are talking about people who are being stereotypical towards young drivers and how annoying it is and yes i admit it is annoying when people are stereotypical of younger people in general.
but right after you complain about people being stereotypical you start doing the exact same thing they do by commenting on other peoples driving.
and to be honest when you hear about car accidents its usually younger drivers involved.
and is it a crime to hang around on the street on a friday night with your friends?
no but what is a crime is you accusing these people of being drunk when you clearly have no idea what was going on at the time.
I'm 15 and i do not spend every chance i get getting drunk just for something to do.
another example of you being stereotypical, might i add.
lastly, its like you dont even care about the people who are in hospital or the families or even the people who witnessed it. you just want to make an arguement to get attention.
so bascially my whole point is think about what youre going to say before you say because when you say things like you do, there are going to be consequences.
parent123
says...
11:31pm Mon 9 Mar 09
We hope and pray for the injured children xx
southend199
says...
11:42pm Mon 9 Mar 09
Come on Guys you can do this!!
xx
sandy 62
says...
11:45pm Mon 9 Mar 09
Annyetta
says...
1:48am Tue 10 Mar 09
Driving a car should be seen as a privilege, not a right.
Raising the legal age for driving could possible save many lives... I would be interested in some official statistics.
To everyone affected by this awful accident either directly or indirectly, I send you love and prayers. Look after yourselves and accept all the help you are offered.
mumgc
says...
1:59am Tue 10 Mar 09
sandy 62 wrote:My son was one of the boys on Thorpe Bay Broadway on Friday evening, a little while before they made their way along Tyrone Road and was fortunately one of the lucky ones not hit by the car but who was there helping several of his friends who were. It is so good to hear from 'sandy 62' that they were noticed for being a well behaved group. The same sort of comment was also made by someone whose daughter was in the same ward as my sons friends - that when this same group (and there were quite a lot of them) came to visit their injured friends they were well behaved. As a mum this makes me very proud. We don't always know exactly how our children are behaving when we're not around. These kids are a great bunch and I am hoping and praying tonight that those still in danger and pain somehow feel all the love that is being sent their way and make full recoveries. For those, who like my son, are having trouble coming to terms with what they saw, please remember what you all so bravely did could well have made the difference between some of your friends surviving or not - YOU made a difference. Bless you all - you showed maturity and bravery beyond your years. I'm proud that you are my sons friends. xxxxx
I saw the group of youngsters on Thorpe Bay Broadway at about 9.30pm on Friday night and remarked to my husband how nice it was to see a smart, well behaved group just talking and enjoying themselves, not drunk or shouting or mis behaving in any way. I was so shocked to hear about the accident and do wish all the injured a full recovery. It seems as if they should be proud of the way they acted in this awful situation. As for the driver, I doubt if he went out to cause any damage and he has to live with what he has done. Let's hope the message gets home that a car is a potential killing machine and should be treated with respect. My thoughts are with you all.
essex_girl
says...
7:27am Tue 10 Mar 09
seeviccol
says...
7:49am Tue 10 Mar 09
southend199
says...
7:59am Tue 10 Mar 09
Winston Smith wrote:Just imagine if it was your family or friends involved you wouldn't want to read all these stupid people arguing so i am not starting one with you!!!
southend199 wrote:This is called 'Your Say. It is here for people to comment on stories published in the Echo and on this website. As such people are free to discuss the news and the issues surrounding the news.
Stop all this pathetic arguing. It is not needed on here. This is for families and friends and all the people involved. I have seen the state of the people involved and the families. Please pay them some respect and wish everyone the best.
Come on Guys you can do this!!
xx
To that end, teen drivers, dangerous driving, cars etc. are perfectly valid points for discussion relating to this terrible incident.
southendgal
says...
8:17am Tue 10 Mar 09
mumgc wrote:Hear hear. I don't know these kids personally - but witnessed first hand how well many of them coped with the horrendous situation they were faced with, tending to their injured friends or comforting those who were extremely distressed. mumgc - you are right to feel very proud of your son and his friends. Judging by the way they conducted themselves on Friday, I am sure that their support for one another will see them through this terrible ordeal.
sandy 62 wrote: I saw the group of youngsters on Thorpe Bay Broadway at about 9.30pm on Friday night and remarked to my husband how nice it was to see a smart, well behaved group just talking and enjoying themselves, not drunk or shouting or mis behaving in any way. I was so shocked to hear about the accident and do wish all the injured a full recovery. It seems as if they should be proud of the way they acted in this awful situation. As for the driver, I doubt if he went out to cause any damage and he has to live with what he has done. Let's hope the message gets home that a car is a potential killing machine and should be treated with respect. My thoughts are with you all.My son was one of the boys on Thorpe Bay Broadway on Friday evening, a little while before they made their way along Tyrone Road and was fortunately one of the lucky ones not hit by the car but who was there helping several of his friends who were. It is so good to hear from 'sandy 62' that they were noticed for being a well behaved group. The same sort of comment was also made by someone whose daughter was in the same ward as my sons friends - that when this same group (and there were quite a lot of them) came to visit their injured friends they were well behaved. As a mum this makes me very proud. We don't always know exactly how our children are behaving when we're not around. These kids are a great bunch and I am hoping and praying tonight that those still in danger and pain somehow feel all the love that is being sent their way and make full recoveries. For those, who like my son, are having trouble coming to terms with what they saw, please remember what you all so bravely did could well have made the difference between some of your friends surviving or not - YOU made a difference. Bless you all - you showed maturity and bravery beyond your years. I'm proud that you are my sons friends. xxxxx
The Voice of Reason
says...
8:36am Tue 10 Mar 09
Winston Smith wrote:Indeed Winston . . . this terrible incident happens, everyone suddenly appears in here to pass their messages (which they are entitled to do) but then try and dictate to us regular contributors what can and can't be said. That's bull***t.
southend199 wrote: Stop all this pathetic arguing. It is not needed on here. This is for families and friends and all the people involved. I have seen the state of the people involved and the families. Please pay them some respect and wish everyone the best. Come on Guys you can do this!! xxThis is called 'Your Say. It is here for people to comment on stories published in the Echo and on this website. As such people are free to discuss the news and the issues surrounding the news. To that end, teen drivers, dangerous driving, cars etc. are perfectly valid points for discussion relating to this terrible incident.
Listen everyone, this is a forum, a place for free speech (within the realms of decentcy) and you newbies should respect that, and respect the fact that people are entitled to their opinion, whether it's what you want to read or not.
The site administrators here will decide what is suitable to be postsed here, and what's not, although i know that the regulars in here already are decent people who conduct themselves in a mature, and considerate way.
Moving back to the incident, I hope that the injured parties are all recovering well.
TVoR
katiebeebee
says...
8:39am Tue 10 Mar 09
sandy 62 wrote:This is so tragic. I hope and pray that everyone recovers. xXx
I saw the group of youngsters on Thorpe Bay Broadway at about 9.30pm on Friday night and remarked to my husband how nice it was to see a smart, well behaved group just talking and enjoying themselves, not drunk or shouting or mis behaving in any way. I was so shocked to hear about the accident and do wish all the injured a full recovery. It seems as if they should be proud of the way they acted in this awful situation. As for the driver, I doubt if he went out to cause any damage and he has to live with what he has done. Let's hope the message gets home that a car is a potential killing machine and should be treated with respect. My thoughts are with you all.
Winston Smith
says...
8:47am Tue 10 Mar 09
southend199 wrote:Two British soldiers were gunned down at the weekend in Northern Ireland. Are you saying that no-one should be permitted an opinion on that outside of their families? The same goes for the victims of famine, war and pestilence around the world, should no-one outside of their families be permitted to comment?
Winston Smith wrote:Just imagine if it was your family or friends involved you wouldn't want to read all these stupid people arguing so i am not starting one with you!!!
southend199 wrote:This is called 'Your Say. It is here for people to comment on stories published in the Echo and on this website. As such people are free to discuss the news and the issues surrounding the news.
Stop all this pathetic arguing. It is not needed on here. This is for families and friends and all the people involved. I have seen the state of the people involved and the families. Please pay them some respect and wish everyone the best.
Come on Guys you can do this!!
xx
To that end, teen drivers, dangerous driving, cars etc. are perfectly valid points for discussion relating to this terrible incident.
This is a big story, I live in Shoebury, I have thoughts and opinions and I WILL express them.
Free Speach
says...
9:30am Tue 10 Mar 09
Free Speach
says...
9:30am Tue 10 Mar 09
margrete
says...
10:18am Tue 10 Mar 09
That said, I agree that the speed limit of 30 mph in residential areas should be lowered to 20. I live on a small residential road which is treated as a 'rat run'. Drivers start at one end, put their foot down and pass our door at 60 mph and I have been saying for years that it's only a matter of time before pedestrian(s) get mowed down. To judge by the work vans etc that pass, these are not young inexperienced drivers either!
Perhaps there is a case for a 'probationary' period after the basic driving test is passed. I haven't forgotten - once you've passed your test and can drive alone, that's when you really start to learn. My younger daughter said the same thing. She passed her test at age 17, was driving an old Ford Escort, and she gained experience by driving in appalling weather conditions one winter in the Pennines.
We have all had to learn. But would even lowering the speed limit be of use if a driver was determined to put his/her foot down?
I disagree with someone who wrote that driving an automatic was only for the fairground, or some such. After decades of driving manual cars, my husband and I now drive an automatic. Your driving skills don't have to be any less - you still have to be alert and aware of where you are and what's going on around you, the hazards that you come upon every single time you take the car off your own driveway.
Girl1234
says...
10:32am Tue 10 Mar 09
Eleanor and Jack; people are constantly thinking about you and are wishing you well. I hope that your both okay and get up and about very quickly. Your friends and family are so worried and miss you ever so much, so may god help you be safe and make quick progress.
Your in my thoughts and I will pray for you and your family and friends. Keep strong, there are so many people out there rooting for you.
Wishing that each day brings you renewed strength, brighter times, and a healthier, happier you. Get well soon.
Super27
says...
11:07am Tue 10 Mar 09
The issue here is not that a 17 year old seems to have been driving recklessly, it was an inexperienced and immature driver. If he'd been 21 and just passed his test, the same kind of thing could very well still happen. Just because someone is older when they get a driving license, doesn't make them a safer driver.
I think a better solution is to have a requirement for a minimum amount of instructor based lessons, (and no, I'm not a driving instructor), some kind of training that demonstrates the consequences of driving poorly and most certainly the banning of these 1 week driving courses that can take a immature adolescent on their 17th birthday and reward them 7 days later with a full driving license!
............and of course, to those involved in this terrible accident, let's hope you all make full recoveries, and to the parents; you must be ever so proud of the comments made by those that saw your children both before and after this accident, their behaviour demonstrates why we should all trust our teenage kids a little more.....ok, maybe that's going too far!
Again, get well soon.
Haveaheart
says...
12:03pm Tue 10 Mar 09
I am sure that the driver is punishing himself way beyond any that the law could enforce. I understand that he was driving irresponsibly but I dont assume that he had the intention of causing so much hurt to his friends and collegues from school. I do agree that the driving limit should be looked at and perhaps raised and that the week driving courses should be banned. I pray for Jack who is in my sons form at school and Eleanor to make a full recovery from their terrible injuries and praise each and every one of you who helped with the injured on friday, you are all true heroes. x
mrluke
says...
12:20pm Tue 10 Mar 09
Its only for the experienced drivers on the road that pileups dont occur .
people mature at diff ages , and some people just cant drive period .
specially the middle aged men with short man syndrome driving a large 3 serial 3ltr Bmw !
it was an accident , end of .. he will ahve learnt hes lesson as he and the others will ahve to live with this the rest of there lifes !.
Wishign every one a speedy recovery
Luke.
mum.s/end
says...
12:22pm Tue 10 Mar 09
bezzie
says...
12:45pm Tue 10 Mar 09
urage and strength you all have around you. As a parent my heart goes out to all the families involved in this tragedy and I wish them all a speedy recovery. x x x
theresastar
says...
12:51pm Tue 10 Mar 09
Someone's looking over you.
Stay strong - keep fighting.
Friends and families love you both.
hammersfan
says...
1:55pm Tue 10 Mar 09
barbara7
says...
2:56pm Tue 10 Mar 09
Out of respect for family and friends of Eleanor in particular and Jack please don't say anything until you have had it confirmed.
God bless Barbara
chunky52
says...
3:04pm Tue 10 Mar 09
mrluke wrote:I can't believe I've just read this. What planet is 'mrluke' on?
You cant comment on the childs inexperience on the road for this type of driving . Driving to work each day you see experienced drivers tail gateing , speeding etc . Its only for the experienced drivers on the road that pileups dont occur . people mature at diff ages , and some people just cant drive period . specially the middle aged men with short man syndrome driving a large 3 serial 3ltr Bmw ! it was an accident , end of .. he will ahve learnt hes lesson as he and the others will ahve to live with this the rest of there lifes !. Wishign every one a speedy recovery Luke.
Firstly the driver of the car is not a child at 17yrs old. If you class 17 as a child then raise the driving age to 21 yrs.
Secondly it was not an accident that couldn't be avoided, he simply wasn't mature enough to handle a motor vehicle of any kind. He proved that himself on Friday evening.
Perhaps 'mrluke' would feel differently if the victims were his relatives?
mrluke
says...
3:12pm Tue 10 Mar 09
i was commenting on people saying that a 17 year old should not be allowed to drive . i stated that driving to work every day u see the scummy middle aged men in there massive 3ltr engines banging down dual carrige ways.
a person at 17 is still a child , its 1 year past the minimum age for sex .. so yes i would still class them as a child.
i totally agree if the driver was at fault and i had family there that was hurt i would be upset.
read the main topic again 'suspicion of dangerous driving'
i cant and wont comment on a 17 year olds driving untill hes proven guilty then maybe my opinon would change.
there was no fatalitys and i wish every 1 a speedy recovery .
thanks
luke
opalina
says...
3:46pm Tue 10 Mar 09
chunky52 wrote:Firstly, the legal age of adulthood is 18 so yes a 17 year old is considered a child.
mrluke wrote: You cant comment on the childs inexperience on the road for this type of driving . Driving to work each day you see experienced drivers tail gateing , speeding etc . Its only for the experienced drivers on the road that pileups dont occur . people mature at diff ages , and some people just cant drive period . specially the middle aged men with short man syndrome driving a large 3 serial 3ltr Bmw ! it was an accident , end of .. he will ahve learnt hes lesson as he and the others will ahve to live with this the rest of there lifes !. Wishign every one a speedy recovery Luke.I can't believe I've just read this. What planet is 'mrluke' on? Firstly the driver of the car is not a child at 17yrs old. If you class 17 as a child then raise the driving age to 21 yrs. Secondly it was not an accident that couldn't be avoided, he simply wasn't mature enough to handle a motor vehicle of any kind. He proved that himself on Friday evening. Perhaps 'mrluke' would feel differently if the victims were his relatives?
secondly, the age of the driver has not been established as the cause of the accident! In fact why is it that people on mobile phones, drink driving, speeding, reaching across the dashboard, turning to look at kids in the back, turing the volume on a radio and general arrogance are not age specific!
Thirdly, that is precisely the reason why people who are emotionally connected with a case are not permitted to take part in the judicial process in this country!!
Unless the person behind a wheel can honestly say thay have NEVER done any of the above things they cannot judge. It could have happened in any of those curcumstances and to any one of us but more importantly until we know the fact it is no use speculating.
Once again heartfelt sympathies to all those involved!!
Winston Smith
says...
3:47pm Tue 10 Mar 09
They are on a dual carriageway, where mostly the speed limit is 70mph. What people drive has nothing to do with it. As for middle aged people being 'scummy', I can only presume you are 15 years old and don't yet hold a driving licence.
One thing you won't see middle aged drivers (or any driver of any maturity for that matter) doin, is pretending to drive at pedestrians and losing control of their car and hospitalising fourteen innocent kids. Idiocy like that is the sole territory of the inexperienced young driver.
ryernnn
says...
3:49pm Tue 10 Mar 09
musicmaker
says...
3:49pm Tue 10 Mar 09
mrluke
says...
3:56pm Tue 10 Mar 09
Winston Smith wrote:1.) you obviously dont drive in the morning between the hours of 7-9 .. on the a130 and a12 you will see middle aged men driving to work in there suits at 100+ on the outside lane ( i say middle aged men as you do not see yong people driving 3tlr engined cars)
mrluke wrote: "driving to work every day u see the scummy middle aged men in there massive 3ltr engines banging down dual carrige ways."
They are on a dual carriageway, where mostly the speed limit is 70mph. What people drive has nothing to do with it. As for middle aged people being 'scummy', I can only presume you are 15 years old and don't yet hold a driving licence.
One thing you won't see middle aged drivers (or any driver of any maturity for that matter) doin, is pretending to drive at pedestrians and losing control of their car and hospitalising fourteen innocent kids. Idiocy like that is the sole territory of the inexperienced young driver.
2.) i didnt call all middle aged men scummy , i accused the men of tailgating and speeding 100+ scummy and they deserve to be banned
3.)no one knows the full facts of this , who knows hes cars stearing could have broken.
im not defending the child , i just thing that people are assuming he is totally at fault here with out full evidence
sells12
says...
3:58pm Tue 10 Mar 09
margrete
says...
4:19pm Tue 10 Mar 09
Super27 wrote:I agree with what Super27 wrote above. And also my best wishes for speedy recovery - it's amazing how young healthy bodies CAN recover, and please God, they will do.
There seem to be a lot of comments appearing concerning the age at which someone should be allowed to drive. I just wanted to say to those that think raising the minimum driving age is the way to go; I think you're wrong.
The issue here is not that a 17 year old seems to have been driving recklessly, it was an inexperienced and immature driver. If he'd been 21 and just passed his test, the same kind of thing could very well still happen. Just because someone is older when they get a driving license, doesn't make them a safer driver.
I think a better solution is to have a requirement for a minimum amount of instructor based lessons, (and no, I'm not a driving instructor), some kind of training that demonstrates the consequences of driving poorly and most certainly the banning of these 1 week driving courses that can take a immature adolescent on their 17th birthday and reward them 7 days later with a full driving license!
............and of course, to those involved in this terrible accident, let's hope you all make full recoveries, and to the parents; you must be ever so proud of the comments made by those that saw your children both before and after this accident, their behaviour demonstrates why we should all trust our teenage kids a little more.....ok, maybe that's going too far!
Again, get well soon.
The age of driving is not the issue, it is the experience and the capability. Not all of us passed our test at age 17, some of us had no opportunity to do so until later. A cousin of mine passed hers when she was 59!
A couple of years ago I hadn't been driving for a while, reasons....I enrolled in an Advanced Driving course taught by a police driving instructor at Southend Civic Centre. Even though I'd have called myself an experienced driver, having driven for jobs for a number of years, I learned a huge amount from that course. I'm firmly of the opinion that passing your basic test is only the start - it's when you start to drive unsupervised that you really begin to learn. More tuition following the basic test would, I feel, be a very good idea. You see appalling examples of driving by all kinds of drivers every single day you go out on to the roads, or even from your own front window on a residential road which is a 'rat run'.
seeviccol
says...
4:56pm Tue 10 Mar 09
opalina wrote:no the cause of the accident was a young boy trying to scare one kid he didnt like... will justice be doen nope!!!!
chunky52 wrote:Firstly, the legal age of adulthood is 18 so yes a 17 year old is considered a child. secondly, the age of the driver has not been established as the cause of the accident! In fact why is it that people on mobile phones, drink driving, speeding, reaching across the dashboard, turning to look at kids in the back, turing the volume on a radio and general arrogance are not age specific! Thirdly, that is precisely the reason why people who are emotionally connected with a case are not permitted to take part in the judicial process in this country!! Unless the person behind a wheel can honestly say thay have NEVER done any of the above things they cannot judge. It could have happened in any of those curcumstances and to any one of us but more importantly until we know the fact it is no use speculating. Once again heartfelt sympathies to all those involved!!mrluke wrote: You cant comment on the childs inexperience on the road for this type of driving . Driving to work each day you see experienced drivers tail gateing , speeding etc . Its only for the experienced drivers on the road that pileups dont occur . people mature at diff ages , and some people just cant drive period . specially the middle aged men with short man syndrome driving a large 3 serial 3ltr Bmw ! it was an accident , end of .. he will ahve learnt hes lesson as he and the others will ahve to live with this the rest of there lifes !. Wishign every one a speedy recovery Luke.I can't believe I've just read this. What planet is 'mrluke' on? Firstly the driver of the car is not a child at 17yrs old. If you class 17 as a child then raise the driving age to 21 yrs. Secondly it was not an accident that couldn't be avoided, he simply wasn't mature enough to handle a motor vehicle of any kind. He proved that himself on Friday evening. Perhaps 'mrluke' would feel differently if the victims were his relatives?
tfcp
says...
5:48pm Tue 10 Mar 09
For those who want to continue to give their support, there is a Facebook Group at the following address:
http://www.facebook.
com/group.php?gid=14
8931575256
Young at Heart
says...
6:23pm Tue 10 Mar 09
As Voltaire said, "I despise what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it". That said, it is also frequently noted that the right to free speech does not extend to the right to shout "fire" in a crowded theatre. The point is that 'rights' come with 'responsibilities', and while anyone has the right to express their views, they should also take responsibility for the effect that doing so will have. The consequences of you, and those like you, using this forum to discuss social issues is that a perception is created that this particular incident re-inforces certain stereotypes when that may not, in reality, be the case here. It also, more importantly, causes distress to the people involved and to those close to them.
With regards to your comments on people new to posting messages, I'm not sure what the relevence is? Are the opinions of people who spend more of their time commenting on their views worth more? I think not. Perhaps more time reflecting on your views, and less time voicing them would be in order.
No doubt people will express views regarding the soldiers from NI, and I would send the same message to them. When did civility and decency get replaced by an overriding need to be the first to say "I told you so" and invoke the right to free speech?
I absolutely respect your right to express an opinion. However, I would ask you, and others who have posted their social views on here, to consider the impact of your actions. You have a responsibility to behave as a decent person, showing empathy for those involved in order to invoke your right to free speech.
God gave you 2 ears and 1 mouth for a reason.
I will never understand why anyone feels the need to reprimand the young people using this site to cope with this terrible situation. I will never understand the need to post messages within days of a tragic event which attempt to depict those involved as being irresponsible without access to the facts. I will always admire and respect these young people, and will defend them for expressing their views. I will defend you for expressing your views too, TVoR, but there is a time and a place.
Love to all those involved in the incident as ever.
Love to TVoR and WS too, but you have made me very angry!!
foxymain
says...
6:26pm Tue 10 Mar 09
I have witnessed diabolical arguments between bloggers who appear to think their opinion is better than the last.
I do not know any of the individuals personnaly, and make my views purely on what I have read.
It appears the driver of the vehicle made a mass error of judgement. Whether he was larking around or malicious, that it not for a forum to decide, but a court.
I say it appears. I WASNT THERE.
It appears also that many young people at the scene, whether connected directly or indirectly worked hard to help the injured.
You should commend yourselves.
The families of those who sustained serious injuries, my heart goes out to. I hope your children recover and recover in full. Particularly at the years when life is just beginning for them.
I am appalled at early comments claiming that critically injured people have passed away. Hearsay is no good judgement and you do not have to be the first person to break the tragic news. Leave that to the police and other auhorities.
People with experience.
It must have been a very frightining experience to witness and I hope all those directly involved will overcome this and maybe learn from some of it.
Please do not fight with each other on this post, but help like you did when it mattered.
I sincerely hope that those young persons still in hospital recover and lead the lives that they intended to do the day before this event.
I will respond to any comments on this posting and do not wish to be like some sad people with too much time on their hands arguing about whose opinions matter most.
I do not know Jack or Eleanor, but I hope and pray you progress well.
shoebs
says...
6:32pm Tue 10 Mar 09
x
foxymain
says...
6:36pm Tue 10 Mar 09
doyoufeel100
says...
6:36pm Tue 10 Mar 09
At the end of the day the wide majority of 'newbies' like myself only signed up to this website to leave support to the family and friends of the victims, I personally don't care about this forum, you're acting like you own the place and people that are innocently giving love and support to the victims of this crash are being called 'dictators' and 'intruders'.
It's pathetic, of course you have the 'right' to post in here like everybody else does, but you have to act with some maturity, and in such a distressing time for so many people involved, whether family/friends or just local people that are shocked that such a horrible thing has happened in their community.
Personally, if you want to discuss issues over young people driving then that's fine, but not when there are people that just want to give love and support to those involved in the same place.
seeviccol
says...
7:24pm Tue 10 Mar 09
we all know you can get through this els- you're a fighter.
and everyone wishes you the best and to your family.
best wishes for jack and ellen too and hope you make a speedy recovery. and best wishes to their families.
as to everyone else involved physically and/or mentally in this accident. best wishes and hope you recover very soon too. :)
xxxxxx
lee_87
says...
7:44pm Tue 10 Mar 09
My younger brother knows one of girls who was involved in this accident and it makes me very upset to think that know one has anything better to do than to sit on here making comments that are cleary not needed, instead of that with consideration and compassion for the victims who with no doubt will remember this for a very long time.
My heart goes out to all the victims and hope they pull through x
SouthendHighGoer
says...
7:46pm Tue 10 Mar 09
I personally know the parents of the driver, and I cannot imagine what they are going through. The driver must be going through such inner turmoil, facing what he has done. He will have to face it for the rest of his life, his life has been blighted.
Also I cannot even convey how much I feel for Eleanor's family and close friends. I'm praying with all my soul that she'll recover, 14 is too young.
What happened is a tragedy and only that. It could happen to anyone, anywhere. It seems it is a case of terrible fate. Let's however be thankful that there have been no reported fatalities.
And also let’s remember, whatever faith you are if any, that miracles do happen.
Winston Smith
says...
8:21pm Tue 10 Mar 09
Young at Heart wrote:Please clarify your post. i said nothing about new posters' opinions being any less valid than anyone else's.
TVoR, Winston Smith, Airstrip One:
As Voltaire said, "I despise what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it". That said, it is also frequently noted that the right to free speech does not extend to the right to shout "fire" in a crowded theatre. The point is that 'rights' come with 'responsibilities', and while anyone has the right to express their views, they should also take responsibility for the effect that doing so will have. The consequences of you, and those like you, using this forum to discuss social issues is that a perception is created that this particular incident re-inforces certain stereotypes when that may not, in reality, be the case here. It also, more importantly, causes distress to the people involved and to those close to them.
With regards to your comments on people new to posting messages, I'm not sure what the relevence is? Are the opinions of people who spend more of their time commenting on their views worth more? I think not. Perhaps more time reflecting on your views, and less time voicing them would be in order.
No doubt people will express views regarding the soldiers from NI, and I would send the same message to them. When did civility and decency get replaced by an overriding need to be the first to say "I told you so" and invoke the right to free speech?
I absolutely respect your right to express an opinion. However, I would ask you, and others who have posted their social views on here, to consider the impact of your actions. You have a responsibility to behave as a decent person, showing empathy for those involved in order to invoke your right to free speech.
God gave you 2 ears and 1 mouth for a reason.
I will never understand why anyone feels the need to reprimand the young people using this site to cope with this terrible situation. I will never understand the need to post messages within days of a tragic event which attempt to depict those involved as being irresponsible without access to the facts. I will always admire and respect these young people, and will defend them for expressing their views. I will defend you for expressing your views too, TVoR, but there is a time and a place.
Love to all those involved in the incident as ever.
Love to TVoR and WS too, but you have made me very angry!!
And I WILL post my opinion. The more people like you tell me not to, the more I will make my point.
Fourteen innocent kids were hurt, two seriously, by an inexperienced young driver, according to witnesses who have posted here he was deliberately driving at the victims as some kind of 'game'.. in my opinion that demonstrates why many teens do not have the maturity or common sense to be given a driving licence.
Note I say many, not all.
L.G.
says...
9:14pm Tue 10 Mar 09
Firstly I fully agree with everything that foxymain has said. I don't think for one second people can be so judgemental as to make opinions as to what happened and who was to blame and what could have happened etc etc.
I went to school with the driver, and I never had any problem with the lad as far as I'm aware, but this doesnt mean that I'm defending him nor berating him. He isn't someone i particularly like or dislike. I just don't think that people that werent there have a right to be commenting on what actually happened. I wasn't there so I won't give my opinion on something i know nothing about. Simple as.
As for the discussions regarding age and driving, and tests and speed limits blah blah blah. This is all situational. I've sped on a ridiculous amount of occasions (something I am not by any means proud of), but it has happened and it will happen in the future. We've all done it. There are various measures that should be imposed, and we all have our own opinions on each ruling, but the fact is most of these rules will never actually be changed. I personally believe there should be just as much restriction on people going too slow as people going too fast, as is implented in America, but will this realistically ever come into effect in England? Maybe, maybe not. The fact is everyone thinks they are in control of their vehicle, they don't think they are going to crash, we all think we are far too superior from the average driver. Well, we are all wrong, we aren't.
There are too many people giving ridiculous reasonings behind points that don't necessarily need to be raised on this particular forum. There are a few facts that stand out clear to me. The driver obviously has made a huge mistake. Something he is going to have live with for the rest of his life. There are various people hurt, 2 of which peoples' conditions are critical. Many families have been emotionally hurt over this period. That's what is important at the moment. The fact that a poor girl and boy are fighting for their lives. That's what is important, not some ridiculous 'voice of truth' or whatever other rubbish has been written on here. Have some respect for everyone involved, don't go out of your way to upset everyone that has written on here to show support. Because that is all that is important at the moment - love and support for everyone involved in this nightmare. I highly doubt if anyone involved were to be reading this they would like some of the comments that have been written.
My good wishes and respect go out to all of those involved and affected. I hope you all have a speedy recovery. You've all been strong, and like others have said before, you have all pulled togethor well. That's what counts.
Radar Ears
says...
9:14pm Tue 10 Mar 09
mrluke wrote:When I was 20 years old, I drove a
Winston Smith wrote: mrluke wrote: "driving to work every day u see the scummy middle aged men in there massive 3ltr engines banging down dual carrige ways." They are on a dual carriageway, where mostly the speed limit is 70mph. What people drive has nothing to do with it. As for middle aged people being 'scummy', I can only presume you are 15 years old and don't yet hold a driving licence. One thing you won't see middle aged drivers (or any driver of any maturity for that matter) doin, is pretending to drive at pedestrians and losing control of their car and hospitalising fourteen innocent kids. Idiocy like that is the sole territory of the inexperienced young driver.1.) you obviously dont drive in the morning between the hours of 7-9 .. on the a130 and a12 you will see middle aged men driving to work in there suits at 100+ on the outside lane ( i say middle aged men as you do not see yong people driving 3tlr engined cars) 2.) i didnt call all middle aged men scummy , i accused the men of tailgating and speeding 100+ scummy and they deserve to be banned 3.)no one knows the full facts of this , who knows hes cars stearing could have broken. im not defending the child , i just thing that people are assuming he is totally at fault here with out full evidence
Sierra XR4i 2.8 litre.
So you do sometimes see youngsters (well fairly young) driving large engined cars.
Never had any trouble in it either.
Mind you, I'm a girl, perhaps a bit more careful than a lad, I don't know.
That's all by the by anyway.
More importantly, I keep coming back to the site to see how everyone is, glad to know that things seem to be going well with the three critically injured kids.
Hopefully the others involved are slowly recovering from their terrible ordeal.
I'll be thinking of you all.
keithgammon
says...
9:35pm Tue 10 Mar 09
JZ
says...
10:01pm Tue 10 Mar 09
All of my year at school have been affected by the sudden (but let's pray temporary) loss of our friend Jack.
Jack-we're all thinking of you-I hope that the next few days bring better news for you and all other people and their families affected by this incident
JZ xxx
HollyFork
says...
10:18pm Tue 10 Mar 09
I can't believe this has happened.
I know you are all strong and can pull through
Love to everyone
**** Holly
C xx
says...
10:36pm Tue 10 Mar 09
my thoughts go out to those in hospital.... xxxxxxxxx
TheCleaner
says...
11:48pm Tue 10 Mar 09
chunky52
says...
1:11am Wed 11 Mar 09
Please let's end all this sniping at each other and pray for the injured and their familes at this time. Thank You!
Grunt
says...
5:31am Wed 11 Mar 09
shoebs
says...
7:39am Wed 11 Mar 09
essex_girl
says...
7:44am Wed 11 Mar 09
barbara7
says...
7:53am Wed 11 Mar 09
My deepest sympathy to your family and your wonderful friends. You put up a brave fight .
A bright star shining down on us now.
mum144
says...
7:59am Wed 11 Mar 09
RIP Eleanor
Winston Smith
says...
8:04am Wed 11 Mar 09
Michael Vincent
says...
8:31am Wed 11 Mar 09
news/4192429.Teenage
r_dies_after_Thorpe_
Bay_crash/
rosered
says...
8:49am Wed 11 Mar 09
God Bless you and your family and friends
may they get through their lives treasuring the wonderful memories they have of you and learn to make sense of it all x
My thoughts and prayers are with all involved in this terrible event victims, families, witnesses and yes I include the driver and his family too......
Grunt
says...
8:58am Wed 11 Mar 09
lbb09
says...
9:44am Wed 11 Mar 09
terry amies
says...
11:08am Wed 11 Mar 09
keithgammon
says...
11:35am Wed 11 Mar 09
SHSG has a special place in my heart and my thoughts are also with the school at this very sad time.
Keith Gammon
Rob Clifton
says...
12:33pm Wed 11 Mar 09
In my opinion, it doesn't matter whether opinions are right or wrong, they are welcome to be posted and discussed.
(Within the realms of decency whilst respecting the feelings of those involved obviously)
Rob Clifton
says...
1:57pm Wed 11 Mar 09
i merely argued that this can still be referred to as an accident.
As with an accident being compatible with blame, it is also compatible with the idea that it could have been prevented.
Also... i enjoyed your reference to "the law of physics"
although, i'm sure you're aware that there are many laws.
and the one you meant to refer to is the Law of Angular Momentum (I.E. Conservation of Momentum)
The Voice of Reason
says...
2:06pm Wed 11 Mar 09
By the way, are you a former Westcliffian ? I used to have a teacher of that name back in the mid '80s
TVoR
chunky52
says...
2:15pm Wed 11 Mar 09
Rob Clifton
says...
2:42pm Wed 11 Mar 09
i wasn't even born in the mid 80's!!
(i'm 19)
SHSgirl99
says...
7:16pm Wed 11 Mar 09
Please stop argueing.
Im sure most people now know the tragedy that has come out of this dangerous driving and i hope that most people are thinking of Els' family. She will be greatly missed, and whether anyone likes it or not it is the driver's fault even if it was an accident.
Think about it. xx
BrushLover
says...
7:37pm Wed 11 Mar 09
KevinR
says...
2:13pm Thu 12 Mar 09
I remain, like many parents I think, haunted by the fact that the youngsters hit were doing nothing wrong, nothing cheeky, nothing you could warn them about. They weren't even crossing a road... So there is no distance for us from this tragedy - it could have been any child and any of us affected.
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The car being taken away after the crash
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vangebasildon says...
9:42am Sat 7 Mar 09