Ards and North Down Council plans to install a bench in memory of 16-year-old Jaidyn Rice from Bangor. The teenager was knocked down and killed in July 2025. The Environment Committee approved the proposal at a recent meeting.

Mayor Gillian McCollum and Councillor Pete Wray put forward the plan. McCollum noted the council discussed it with Jaidyn's family. The family has engaged various groups to promote road safety since her death.

The bench will include a QR code linking to the council's 'Here to Help' app. The app offers details on mental health, addiction support, domestic abuse services, housing, emergency contacts, Samaritans, Lifeline, police and community groups.

Wray highlighted Jaidyn's involvement in the Cadets and DICE programme. Committee members also acknowledged seven other road deaths in the borough in 2025. These included 12-year-old Lucas Trainor from Portaferry, killed the same night as Jaidyn.

Alderman Trevor Cummings, Councillor Alistair Cathcart, Alderman Naomi Armstrong-Cotter and Councillor Joe Boyle offered tributes. The full council will review details for the bench's installation.