The classmates of a Swindon teenager killed in a car crash have paid tribute to the late teen by 'bringing him to prom with them'. 

Prom is supposed to be an exciting time for youngsters, marking the end of school, but for many at Nova Hreod Academy it was a poignant reminder that their friend - Harry Parker - was missing. 

The football-mad 14-year-old  died after being hit by a car on Akers Way just outside of secondary school in 2022.

Students at the school had already paid tribute to the popular boy by wearing his favourite colours and football shirts on what would have been his 15th birthday, but those close to him wanted to do something special to make sure he could be part of their prom celebrations at The Village Hotel on July 5. 

Joined by Harry's parents Adam and Kelly, who were overwhelmed with emotion, some of the attending children wore special badges with Harry's face on.

The Harry Parker badge some wore to Nova Hreod's promThe Harry Parker badge some wore to Nova Hreod's prom (Image: Adam Parker) The Parkers said: "We just want to thank everyone for wearing their Harry pins and having photos with us.

"It was nice to see everyone enjoying themselves and having great memories for them.

"It was a shame that Harry wasn’t there in person, but we were grateful he could be there in spirit."

The school has also praised all the pupils for conducting themselves well following Harry's death, with interim principal Sonja Unwin also praising her staff. 

(Image: Dave Cox)

“The loss of a friend is immeasurable, but so is the love left behind and that has been clear across the school since Harry died.

"Our students have surrounded Harry’s closest friends with support, compassion and love helping them to get through, one step at a time.

"The staff have also shown such resilience, caring for others whilst grieving themselves.

"This beautiful tribute to a wonderful young, man lost too soon, shows how everyone who knew him wants the memories and legacy of Harry to live on”.

Adam and Kelly Parker at the Village Hotel for what would have been their son Harry's promAdam and Kelly Parker at the Village Hotel for what would have been their son Harry's prom (Image: Newsquest)

Harry's family has also launched a road safety campaign called Harry's Get Home Safely, with the aim of making roads around schools safer. 

It has successfully got banners installed at the crossing for Nova Hreod on Akers Way encouraging motorists to slow down. 

Ivy Mwangi, 52, from North Swindon, has been charged with causing Harry's death and faces a trial in February next year.