A tree decorated with messages of love will be the heart of a park in memory of little Olivia Pratt-Korbel.
Her mum, Cheryl, 47, led the tributes on what would have been her daughter’s birthday today.
She wrote: “Happy 10th birthday, baby girl, flying high, love you forever, mum xxx”
And Olivia’s cousins will be among the first to play in the special place.
Aunties Kerrieann and Kim helped decorate the tree near Olivia’s old home in Dovecot, Liverpool.
They hope to build a memorial park and are aiming to raise £300,000.
Speaking to the Mirror, Cheryl said: “The idea was doing something for her birthday where people can leave messages.”
The tree sits on the land adjoining the near derelict Labour club, which residents are trying to transform into a haven against crime, and build the memorial garden.
The Mirror is backing their plans, which include a mural and picnic areas.
Two months after Olivia turned nine she was killed in a bungled shooting by drug dealer Thomas Cashman, 34. Recalling that birthday, Cheryl said: “Liv was made up with her bike. She loved family.”
Her aunt has revealed how her five-year-old daughters, Ivy and Amelia, will be among the first to play at their cousin’s memorial park.
Kerrieann Korbel, 34, said: “My girls keep me going because they talk about her. Olivia would have loved the park.”
Liverpool City Council leader Liam Robinson said: “It’s important her loss is never forgotten.”
How you can help:
You can send a cheque payable to Kingsheath and District Veterans Association to Daily Mirror, PO Box 4010. For a direct bank transfer, it’s sort code 53-70-21, account no 75230771.
To go to the fundraising page, visit https://www.cashforkidsgive.co.uk/campaign/charity-champions-liverpool-the-north-west/fundraisers/olivia-pratt-korbel-memorial-garden/
