A new bench has been installed in Haslam Park in memory of Steven Wardle.

The father-of-two drowned in the pond in the park after going for a late night run in July last year.

Steven, 31, was a personal trainer at Pure Gym.

He was found in the early hours of July 9 after being reported missing.

An inquest into Steven’s death recorded he died from drowning.

It is still not known why Steven entered the pond.

Cabinet member for the environment councillor Robert Boswell said: “The tragic news last summer was a shock for everyone that knew Steven.

“Although I didn’t know Steven he was a constituent of mine and I remember events last summer with great sadness. I feel a memorial bench is a lovely tribute and a way that Steven’s family, friends and colleagues can visit Haslam Park to remember him.

“We hope this will be a comforting place for those who knew Steven to come and visit and reflect on their memories.”

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