Friends and family of a popular skateboarder who died last week are hoping to place a plaque in his memory at the skate park he loved.
Sam Banham, a painter and decorator from Brighton, lost his year-long battle with skin cancer last Thursday, July 12, aged 35.
He was diagnosed with melanoma last year after noticing a dark mole on the side of his head.
Sam underwent an operation to remove the mole but the cancer had spread to other parts of his body.
Friends of Sam posted a video online to remember their friend http://vimeo.com/69793678.
Now those who knew him best want something permanent to honour his memory.
John Bullock, of Goldstone Crescent, Hove, has asked the council if a plaque in memory of Sam can be placed at The Level skate park, which is due to reopen next Friday following a £2.5 million restoration project.
Mr Bullock said: “My wife and I have known Sam for about 25 years as he was best friends with our youngest son.
“It just breaks your heart. This boy was one of the finest skateboarders and always there to help other kids.
“You would be very proud to have a son like that.
“I think it’s so sad to lose such a young person. Young people get shot down for different things but here is a young man who needs honouring.
“I hope the council let us put a plaque there because Sam really deserves it – we will have to wait and see."
Sam’s mother, Frances Banham, paid tribute to her “lovely boy”and said she supported the idea of a plaque to remember Sam.
Ms Banham said: “He did love skating and he was very involved with The Level.
“He was travelling round the country at one point building skate board ramps. He thought it was so good. The boys you get down there, they are just like one big family.”
Sam’s funeral will take place on Wednesday at 10am at the South chapel of Woodvale crematorium.
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