Family to install bench along Dee Estuary in memory of dad of four

Martin Lund, from Flint sadly passed away in July 2023 following an 18-month battle with cancer. 

During his treatment, the 64-year-old dad of four would regularly walk the Flint coastal path along the Dee Estuary with wife Marie. 

Martin and Marie Lund (Image: UGC)

Martin, who "loved" the outdoors, would use the walk to keep his fitness up and for fresh air while undergoing treatment. 

However as his health worsened, Martin became unable to do the walk fully because there was nowhere to stop and rest. 

After Martin's sad passing, Marie asked friends and family to raise funds for a bench to be installed along the path in memory of her husband. 

Over £3,000 was raised in total and a cast iron bench, engraved with a host of Martin's favourite things will be put in place along the coastal path later this month.

The back of the bench, with Martin's favourite things (Image: UGC)

Marie said: "We've always used the path and especially during his treatment, we'd be making sure he got fresh air and it was good to keep his fitness up. 

"As things got worse he couldn't get round so we'd have to turn back or stop. 

"Martin loved to be outdoors, he lived in South Africa for 18 years so just loved the lifestyle of being outside. We were always out walking, camping or having BBQ's and entertaining people."

The bench is set to be installed on May 31, with the groundwork being put in place by family members. 

Marie added: "I'll feel really proud once it's there. I also feel proud that we've raised the money to get the bench sorted, which will also help the community.

"The bench has got designs on the back with all things Martin loved so it will really represent him. We've chosen a spot along the path with amazing views too. 

"It gives us somewhere for the family to go and will help us in staying close to him."