'Please do not walk that road' Laois family install bench in teen's memory

A new bench has appeared on a road in Portlaoise, in memory of a young man who died on the road trying to walk home.

The family and friends of Daragh Lee, 19, from Mountmellick, have erected the bench with a heartfelt plea to others not to attempt to walk on the narrow N80 road between Portlaoise and Mountmellick.

Daragh was fatally struck by a vehicle at Kyletalesha on Saturday, November 20 2021.

His sister Lauren Lee has described the "beautiful soul" her brother was, and why the family decided to install the seat, at the Fairgreen Roundbout in Portlaoise.

"1 year 8 months ago our beautiful brother, son and friend was tragically killed on the N80 road between Mountmellick and Portlaoise. Daragh was just trying to get home to us after a night out with his friends.

"The news of his death devastated us and the town. Daragh was only 19 years old, with his whole life ahead of him.

"He was the type of person who made your day better just by speaking with him. He did everything he could just to make someone smile. Daragh had the most beautiful soul and radiated happiness through his smile.

"We can't let another young man or any person loss their life on that dangerous road!

"I started to organise this bench last year, not only for Daraghs memory but to hopefully help other people.

"As I said in my email to the council "Daragh was our hero and saved us in many ways. We just hope that even in his death he can do the same for other people".

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"We ask everyone to talk to their friends and family to remind them their life is the most important thing.

"If you are out and have no way home please sit at Daraghs bench where you will be safe until someone can collect you.

"Please do not walk that road, it is not worth the horrific consequences that can happen," Lauren Lee said.