FRIENDS and family of a young man who drowned tragically last summer returned to the scene for the unveiling of a special memorial.

They were joined by firefighters who had worked with the other emergency services in the frantic bid to find him.

All had come back to attend the unveiling of a plaque in memory of Michael Scaife, 20, who was lost while swimming in the Jubilee River at the Myrke, Datchet on August 7.

Michael had been swimming with friends when he was pulled under by the current at about 7pm.

Michael’s family and friends joined the emergency services in the frantic search while darkness fell, after word got out on social media. Tragically his body was found the following afternoon.

The plaque was unveiled on the newly named Michael’s Bridge overlooking the spot where he died.

Slough Observer:

Michael’s father, Mark Scaife, who was at the unveiling with Michael’s mother Sonia, fought back tears while explaining why he had successfully campaigned for the plaque.

He said: “Hopefully this will remind people that rivers aren’t safe, any rivers. Hopefully this will save other people’s lives.”

The Royal Borough newly elected mayor Cllr Sayonara Luxton was visibly touched as she took Mr Luxton’s arm.

The plaque carries the potent warning: ‘In memory of Michael Scaife who lost his life in the Jubilee River on August 7, 2015 aged 20.

‘To warn others of the hidden dangers of undercurrents this river possesses. Please stay safe and stay out of the river’.

The ceremony was also attended by Slough’s MP Fiona Mactaggart, as well as local councillors. They joined Michael’s family and friends on the bridge.

Poignantly there was a large turn-out of firefighters who had helped in the search for Michael.

Firefighter Seth Ruby said: “It is a personal thing for us to be here today. We wanted to come down and pay our respects.”

Mark Scaife has worked closely with the Fire Brigade since his son’s death, campaigning to raise awareness of the dangers of swimming in the river.

Michael, who lived at Trelawney Avenue, Langley, was closely involved with the Prince’s Trust charity’s Slough team in the months before his death and was set to become a leader.