THE parents of an Evesham boy who died in a road accident planted the first of three trees in his memory at Evesham High School.

Robert and Julie Smout planted a winter flowering cherry tree outside the main entrance on Monday in memory of their 13-year-old son, Adam, who died after he was hit by a car as he crossed Elm Road with friends in November last year.

Adam's friends, Sarah Fortey and Steven Brotherton, attended the ceremony as student representatives of Year 10. A second tree was planted at Adam's former school, Simon de Montfort Middle, later the same day, and a third tree is planned for Bengeworth First School next year.

Adam's father, Robert, said: "We would like to thank the children who performed a concert and raised enough money for these plantings."

Evesham High School head teacher David Kelly said: "It's very tragic when a young life is cut short.

"Adam will always be remembered for his good nature, good humour and zest for life.

"It is wonderful that his friends have planted a living tribute to Adam that will remind us all of how much we valued him and how much we need to value each other."

Immediately after the accident last year, a call went out to create a crossing at Elm Road to make it safer for pedestrians to cross.

The idea proved impractical but county highways officers are currently investigating the possibility of generally improving the crossing facilities near to the Bengeworth roundabout.