TWO memorial benches could be erected in memory of tragic canal fall victim Robbie Williamson.

Rosegrove residents and businesses have rallied round to support the youngster’s family after he died on Tuesday night following an accident on the Leeds and Liverpool Canal.

Robbie, 11, fell from a pipe attached to Dugdale Bridge, in Lowerhouse Lane, and hit his head on the canal path before falling into the water.

Kelly Decruz, of Gannow Lane, said she felt compelled to act after visiting the scene of the accident, which has been decorated with dozens of floral tributes, scarves and messages of condolence.

Ms Decruz, 33, said: “This is such a tragedy. I don’t know his family at all but I just wanted to show them that the people of Rosegrove and Burnley are thinking of them.

“Hopefully after the funeral we can arrange it with Robbie’s family. The children at Shuttleworth College want to do something for him too so we’re going to speak to them.

“The idea would be to have one at the school and one in public. There’s a memorial garden as you come into Rosegrove so that could be an option but it’s down to the family at the end of the day.”

Those behind the plan spoken to Robbie’s mum, Nicola Grimshaw, who gave the go-ahead for the benches to be set up, pending any council planning permission.

Ms Decruz said: “I sent her a message on Facebook and she’s quite happy for it. She’s over the moon with the idea.

“I’m a mum, I’ve got four kids and my children go to Shuttleworth as well.

"Everyone’s been touched by it.

“We’ve got someone willing to make and engrave plaques. Homebase have given us the first bench and I’ve asked B&Q for a second one.

“I want to do a fundraiser as well and I believe the school does too so we’ll discuss that after the funeral.”

Robbie’s death has been reported to the East Lancashire coroner, Richard Taylor, who is expected to open and adjourn an inquest tomorrow.

A date has yet to be set for his funeral.