Aid worker's family urges council to fund memorial

The family of a British aid worker killed by an Israeli drone strike in Gaza have called on council chiefs to "immortalise our hero" with a memorial.

James Kirby, 47, from Bristol, was one of seven World Central Kitchen (WCK) workers killed while travelling in an aid convoy on 1 April 2024.

Speaking on the second anniversary of his death, James' cousin, Louise Kirby, said a mural, along with surrounding marble, would make a "fitting tribute for his service and dedication".

Bristol City Council said its council officers are working with a funeral director on the family's request, adding it was not aware of any calls for the council to fund the memorial.

Louise said the family would appreciate any support the council can offer to help "immortalise our city's hero forever".

In the fatal incident, Israeli armed drones fired munitions through three marked vehicles in the WCK convoy as it left one of the aid group's warehouses in Deir al-Balah, south of Gaza City.

Britons John Chapman, 57, and James "Jim" Henderson, 33, were also killed in the attack.

Louise said: "All three were British citizens and former members of the Armed Forces, who continued their lives of service in support of others.

"James was my aunt's only son, and his loss has left an unimaginable void in her life.

"The pain of losing a child is something she carries every day."

Louise said James was "deeply loved" by the whole family and remembered for his "courage, compassion, and dedication to helping others".

Speaking before his funeral in May 2024, James' mother, Jacqui Kirby, said he was a "remarkable man".

The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) said it dismissed two officers and reprimanded three others over the incident, calling it a "serious mistake".

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