Mourners hold back tears at Southampton memorial service to remember homeless deaths

  • ITV News Meridian's Rachel Hepworth reports from the memorial service in Southampton

A memorial service has taken place to remember the 32 homeless people who have died in Southampton this year.

It is the second year that homeless support organisations have come together to host the service at St Mary's Church.

Many of those commemorated had not had a formal funeral service.

One of those remembered was Simon Dalton, 58, who died on November 17, 2023.

He was fondly remembered by those who knew him, including Madi Parffett, from the Southampton branch of the Two Saints Charity.

Madi Parffett (right), who works as a relief worker, with Simon Dalton (left). Credit: Madi Parffett

She said: "He was the kind of person who would donate his own clothes to the clothing store at the hostel, bearing in mind he has absolutely nothing but wanted to give back."

One mourner, who knew more than half of those who died, was 27-year-old Ryan who's been homeless for nearly a year.

He attended the service to pay tribute to his friend Simon McCarthy, who died aged 59.

He said: "I tried my hardest four times not to cry. One of the names that was mentioned today I knew very well and when I found out he had passed, it broke my heart, it really did."

  • Ryan remembers his friend Simon McCarthy, who died while living on the streets

As every name was read out, a candle was lit in their memory.

Prayers were also said for one man, found dead on Southampton Common, who has never been identified.

Pam Campbell said: "I have worked in the field for 33 years and still we are seeing people die prematurely and live lives that are less than fulfilled for themselves.

"My grief gives way to anger really about the fact that we are still doing this after all these years."

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