THE FAMILY and friend of a teenager whose body was found in Weymouth Harbour have come out in support of the new safety railings along Custom House Quay.
Louis Harris from Dorchester was celebrating his friend James Trowbridge's 19th birthday at The Royal Oak in Dorchester, and then onto Rendezvous in Weymouth on February 14, 2016.
The next morning, Mr Trowbridge discovered Louis had gone missing after he was seen in the early hours leaving the club and walking towards the direction of Weymouth Harbour.
Mr Trowbridge, now aged 24, who lives in Crossways, said: “There were seven of us on the night out.
“We got separated around 3am.
"Later on we found out Louis was seen heading towards the harbour - but we didn’t see him again that night."
Louis’s parents said: “He was not used to drinking alcohol and didn’t go out often.
“He had come home from university on the Saturday evening.
“The month before, he said how much he was looking forward to being home for the week, and going out for his friend’s birthday.”
Louis' body was discovered near the town’s ferry terminal a month later.
“That month was surreal.
"I was devastated and shocked. It was the worst possible outcome,” said Mr Trowbridge.
“I’m all for the safety railings on the harbour.
“I’ve seen people complain about them and I can see it from a political point of view - the fact Dorset Council did not consult with the town council for the installation, but if they can save one life, they are worth it.
“We lost our friend and it’s been very difficult ever since.”
The family of Louis Harris said: “As we enter a period where the quayside becomes increasingly busy, we would earnestly urge the public to take great care by the waterside.
“We would similarly urge all those with responsibility - both elected and unelected officials - to put aside any political differences, join together, and work to best practice, making the Quayside environment safe for everyone to enjoy.
“We support the position taken by Dorset Council on April 16.”
Dorset Council declined to comment.
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