MELKSHAM’S football community has paid tribute to former Melksham Town FC youth player, Benjamin Smith, who died last week at the age of 18.
Benjamin died in hospital following an assault in Bath that took place in the early hours of Monday 1st November in Corn Street between 2.30am and 3am, almost immediately after an altercation at McDonald’s in nearby Southgate Street.
In memory of Benjamin, at the weekend, local football games held a minute’s silence or a round of applause.
Melksham Town’s youth football club said, “Ben was part of our youth set up from approximately 2008 until 2018, under Rich Davis, Darren McMillen and Lee Baston and was part of a team who won leagues and cups along the way. He also completed his Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and helped coach one of our U10s four years ago.
“We cannot begin to imagine the pain that is being felt by Ben’s loss and we send our love and prayers to everyone who knew him.”
The club added, “Melksham Town FC are deeply shocked and devastated to hear of the tragic death of one of our former youth players Ben Smith. We would like to pass on our deepest condolences to Ben’s family and friends.”
Avon and Somerset Police arrested a man last week in connection with Benjamin’s death and he was released on police bail while investigations continue.
Avon and Somerset Police said, “Sadly, Benjamin Smith, 18, of Melksham, died in hospital on Tuesday 2nd November, following an assault in the early hours of Monday 1st November.
“Our thoughts are with his family, who are being supported by specialist officers and ask for privacy as they come to terms with their tragic loss.
“The assault happened in Corn Street between 2.30am and 3am, almost immediately after an altercation at McDonald’s in nearby Southgate Street.
“Benjamin went to hospital by ambulance for treatment to a head injury but sadly died on Tuesday evening.
“A man aged 19 was initially arrested on Monday 1st November on suspicion of assault causing grievous bodily harm and was subsequently re-arrested on Wednesday 3rd November, on suspicion of murder. He has now been released on police bail pending further enquiries.
“If you were in the area of Southgate Street, St James’s Parade or Corn Street, Bath, between 2.30am and 3am on Monday 1 November you may be able to help.
“If you saw the incident or have dashcam or phone footage which could help please call 101 and give the reference 5221256064.”
Pictured: Melksham Town FC pay tribute to Benjamin Smith at their match on 6th November. Photo by Starsphinx Photography.
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