Bench Reveals

A Beautiful Day in Alresford, Hampshire, Remembering Archie ( Puddle ) While Installing a Bench in his Memory.

Two Suicide Prevention Benches installed in Hampshire today, Alresford & Basingstoke. Onwards we march.

August 4th, 2026, was a truly memorable day for the Pond family and everyone at Legend on the Bench Charity as we unveiled another Suicide Prevention Bench in loving memory of Archie Pond.

The day held even greater significance as it would have been Archieโ€™s 21st birthday. While he is deeply missed, his memory continues to make a lasting difference.

This is Archieโ€™s legacy, and it will continue to touch lives for many years to come. ๐Ÿ’™

It was a truly beautiful day, and the turnout was incredible. Seeing so many people come together, not only to remember Archie but to stand together in support of such an important cause, was deeply moving. Itโ€™s something I will never forget, and it meant more than words can ever fully express. Archies Mum & Dad, Martyn & Julie along with his brother Zac were in attendance and showed such incredible dignity in amidst such devastating heartbreak.

The speech from Achies Dad was short but deeply heartfelt, filled with honesty, love, and raw emotion. The love for Archie was felt in every word, a beautiful reflection of the special person he was and the lasting impact he continues to have on everyone who knew and loved him. It was a truly moving tribute that touched everyone present and created a moment that will always be remembered. ๐Ÿ’™๐Ÿ™

The unveiling, as always, touched every emotion. There were moments of sadness, reflection, love, and hope all intertwined. It was a powerful reminder of why these benches matter so much, and how they help open up conversations that are often so difficult, yet so necessary. During the unveiling Archies Dad revealed he had engraved Archies. nickname Puddle into the base the bench is fixed on, a beautiful touching moment. ๐Ÿ’™

A very special thank you to Martyn Pond, Archieโ€™s dad, for everything you have done. Your time, your effort, and your unwavering commitment, all while carrying the unimaginable heartbreak of losing your son, is something truly remarkable. Along with the support of his team, they raised the funds for this bench, and somehow managed to get council approval for the installation of the Bench in their chosen location, amazing. Some of the most extraordinary people are those who continue to show up for others even while living through their own pain, and you, Martyn, are a powerful example of that. ๐Ÿ™

Thank you as always to everyone who played a part, in any way at all. Every single contribution, no matter how big or small, truly matters. Together, we are helping to break down stigma, open up vital conversations, and raise awareness around mental health and suicide. Even the smallest act of kindness can make a difference more than we may ever realise. ๐Ÿ’™

Finally, thank you to everyone who attended. Your presence, your support, and the way you stood together made the day even more meaningful. In moments like these, it is so clear that no one is ever truly alone. Together, we continue to honour Archieโ€™s memory, and to carry forward a message of hope, love, and support for others. ๐Ÿ’™

Together We Can Change the World ๐Ÿ™

Share this story
← Previous Basingstoke Bench Reveal, in Memory of Joe Powell… Next → Unveiling Our Suicide Prevention Bench in Silverdale School,…

Help us make a difference

There are many ways you can support our mission to install benches throughout the UK and Ireland.

Make a Donation

Your contribution helps us install more benches across the UK and Ireland, giving hope to those who need it most.

Donate now

Get a Bench Installed

Sponsor a bench for your local park or community space. Each bench can save lives.

Learn more

Become a Volunteer

Join our team and help grow this vital mission. Every helping hand makes a difference.

Join us
170 benches installed across the UK