Kentish Express Ashford & District
School remembers talented teenager with new award
Towers hands out first Owen Kinghorn gong
A school is remembering a talented footballer with an award and memorial bench following his tragic death.
Owen Kinghorn died after taking an illicit substance for the first time in Great Chart in September, prompting a wave of tributes.
A popular member of Towers School, the Faversham Road site has now named one of its annual awards after the 15-year-old.
His grandad, David Kinghorn, said: “The school approached us asking if we would be happy for them to institute an additional award being the Owen Kinghorn Memorial Award.
“We agreed but asked that it be called the Owen Kinghorn Achievement Award as he had achieved a lot during his effectively short life.”
It was presented by the avid footballer’s mum Rachael as the final prize of the January 14 ceremony, which was attended by more than 300 guests and 120 pupils.
Year 9 pupil Jacob Kennedy was selected as the first recipient of the honour.
A spokeswoman for the school said: “Jacob won the award not only for his sporting achievements but also for the many positive qualities he has as a student, friend and peer.
“David Kinghorn gave a powerful speech in recognition of Owen’s achievements in his short life, reminding everyone that we should be proud of our accomplishments, no matter how great or small.”
Owen’s memorial shield is now one of four given by Towers, rewarding those who have had an impact on the wider school life.
The others are The James Bell
Memorial Award, Len Wheeler Award and Carol Webb Award.
Although not in place yet, Towers has acquired a memorial bench which will be placed next to the 3G pitch which was Owen’s favourite meeting place at lunchtime.
■ In a heartfelt bid to ensure Owen's death wasn't in vain, and to stop other families suffering similar heartbreak, his relatives are backing rehabilitation charity Kenward Trust's Think Differently campaign.
The charity has visited schools across the county since 2016 to shine a light on just how dangerous substance misuse can be.
The KM Media Group wants to help the good cause raise £50,000 to expand its work.
Visit bit.ly/2vaE0Mb to donate.