FOLLOWING a hugely successful campaign to keep alive the memory of a tragic Marlow teenager, fundraisers have launched a second appeal in his name.

The Kyrece Francis Legacy Fund generated around £15,000 when the community rallied following the 13-year-old’s tragic death on the River Thames in Marlow in July.

Set up by his friends, the fund sought to pay for lifesaving equipment along the stretch of river where the talented footballer and avid Chelsea fan lost his life while out playing with mates.

And after pledges from throughout the area during the last round of fundraising, they have decided to carry on their quest to prevent further tragedies near the spot by setting up a new fundraising web page.

Fund coordinator Rachel Rowley, the aunt of one of Kyrece’s friends, said: "We have set up another page to help us raise funds for safety equipment and to raise awareness for the legacy of Kyrece.

"The community lost such an amazing and talented young lad who was a well-loved part of our society. It made us realise that our community need to know more of the dangers the river holds and be able to enjoy our surrounding areas safely."

"With so many deaths over the years we believe now is the time so start helping as a whole community.

"It’s our aim to provide safety equipment along the River Thames, including, life jackets, buoys and signs of awareness to the dangers of swimming in the river."

Marlow came to a standstill last month for Kyrece’s funeral, with hundreds of people joining the procession on foot to All Saints Church for the Great Marlow School pupil.

His teammates at Downley Dynamos FC led the procession, wearing a new strip donated by Wycombe Wanderers, where Kyrece’s stepdad Lewis Cook used to be a player.

The fundraising team also hope to supply safety videos to schools and distribute teaching tools for teachers to explain to their pupils the dangers of swimming in open water.

Jack Sheldon, Team Lead at Yimby, the crowdfunding site used to raise the funds, said: "While this was a tragic accident, the community has come together to do something positive out of a sad situation and making sure it won’t happen to anyone else.

"We want to help make sure that his legacy is set to continue."

The inquest into the death of Kyrece is set to take place on October 16.

Coroner Richard Hulett issued a warning after the tragedy to avoid any more deaths, after five similar incidents were recorded across the UK within a week.

To donate to the cause, visit https://www.justgiving.com/yimby/kyrecefrancis22