A COMMUNITY defibrillator which was bought in memory of a former student was today unveiled in a heartwarming ceremony which celebrated his life.

The life-saving machine was purchased after a major fundraising effort from pupils, staff, parents and Darwen residents in honour of Kevin Burnett.

Kevin died suddenly after suffering from severe asthma at the age of 11 when he had just started at Darwen Aldridge Community Academy.

The defibrillator cost £2,000, was raised by the school in a term by holding a wacky hair day, a disco, an afternoon tea for the Queen’s birthday and donations from the community.

Pupils sang some of Kevin’s favourite songs, including one he chose for his funeral in the knowledge his condition was life-threatening.

His mum Laura Partington said: “The ceremony was so lovely. It was just what I had hoped for. I love how everyone has shared so many memories of Kevin. It’s impossible to forget things when it comes to him.

“He chose the song I’ll See You Again by Westlife for his funeral when he knew what might happen due to having so many seizures so that was very touching.” “I want to thank everyone in Darwen for their support.”

Students from DACA, who knew the 11-year-old from their time at St Barnabas, shared happy memories with visitors, which included how ‘optimistic and happy’ he was.

As well as the purchase of the defibrillator, headteacher Helen Thomas said the money left over from the fundraising was to go towards a peace garden.

Mrs Thomas said: “Because Kevin was allergic to grass, whenever it was being cut he had to stay inside.

“So what we have decided to do it put down some artificial grass and create a place where pupils can go and read or just sit and be quiet for a while.

“We are also working on an art project with DACA A-level students which will go on a wall where Kevin used to sit by when he couldn’t play football. The defibrillator is for the whole community of Darwen and we want people to know it is there if they need it.”

The ceremony was led by Mrs Thomas and Rev David Bacon from St Barnabas Church. Amongst the visitors were Kevin’s five brothers Lucas, John and Ben Burnett, who attend DACA, and Jake and Lewis Kenyon, who are still at St Barnabas.