Highland mum wants son's memory kept alive with revamped walking route

A Culloden mum says she wants to continue her son's legacy by transforming a popular walking spot.

Albie Mackenzie died from Sudden Unexplained Death in childhood shortly after his first birthday in 2023.

Along with her family Daisy wants to revamp Culloden Avenue, one of their favourite places to spend time together.

Plans to transform 'Gruffalo walk'

Before his passing, Daisy says Albie enjoyed spending time at Culloden Avenue, which has been nicknamed the 'Gruffalo Walk' due to the wooden carvings of characters from the children's book.

It's often used by those learning to ride a bike, another reason as to why Daisy decided to start funding for the project in memory of her son.

She said: "This year at four-years old, Albie would probably be wobbling and trying to learn to ride his bicycle. 

"That's what got me thinking on a bit of a bigger scale about Culloden Avenue.

"I thought even if he's not riding his bike there, other little four-year olds will be and they'll see those sculptures and smile."

Daisy is now looking to fix and add sculptures and benches along the route, plant more flowers in the area, add some festive lighting and more.

She explained why she wants to remember Albie by giving back to the community.

Daisy added: "It's important for me to do stuff in memory of Albie that is happy. 

"Just because he was such a happy little baby, he was always smiling at anyone who would look at his direction. 

"He would always make people laugh, he was such a little comedian. 

"Having those areas for our little ones is very special. 

"It's so important after you've lost a child to have something physical. 

"Somewhere you can go or somewhere that reminds you of them. 

"I hope having that place will be very special."

The McKenzie family are hoping to fundraise £6000 through a crowdfunding appeal.