Memorial Bench for Coco & Tony – A Place to be Remembered...

... A place to Remember, Reflect, and Raise Awareness

We are raising funds for a memorial bench in loving memory of our dear friends, Colin "Coco" Morris and Tony McGowan.

Coco passed away in 2021 after a brave battle with bowel cancer at just 33 years old. Just three years later, we lost Tony, aged 37, who tragically took his own life. The grief hit us all hard – we grew up together, played football nearly every day, and caused the usual mischief around the scheme. Losing two of our own in such different but devastating ways has left a lasting mark on all of us.

We want to honour their memory by placing a bench in one of our regular spots in Muirhouse – somewhere we can sit, reflect, and remember the good times. It’ll be at the top of the hill, not far from Coco’s mum’s house and just along the road from where Tony lived. It's a place that holds so many memories already, and now we want to give it meaning for everyone who loved them.

This bench is more than just a tribute – it’s a message. A reminder to check in on your mates, speak up when you’re struggling, and not to put off important health checks. Coco’s fight with bowel cancer and Tony’s silent battle with his mental health have taught us that time is precious, and help isn’t always visible. If we can raise awareness for colon cancer checks and mental health support through this small gesture, we know it’ll make a difference.

Tony always had a laugh, a joke, and never showed how much he was hurting. Coco fought with everything he had but sometimes even that’s not enough. It’s been tough, and there’s still a lot we’re trying to get our heads round.

The cost of the bench is £2,525. We’ve started with a football card fundraiser, and we’re asking for any donations – big or small – to help us reach our goal. Whether you knew the lads personally or just want to support a cause that promotes awareness and remembrance, your help means the world.

If this bench could give their families and us, a bit of comfort. Somewhere to go when the grief gets heavy, a place to feel close again, it will all be worth it.

Thank you for your support!