A BENCH dedicated to a little girl who died from meningitis, has been presented to a nursery — after the original one was stolen.

The memorial bench, a tribute to three-year-old Chloe Deveney, was taken from the grounds of Grosvenor Nursery, in Kearsley, around two weeks ago.

Last week, Chloe’s mum, Sarah Deveney, appealed for its return.

But when the bench was not handed back, Bolton businesses rallied round and offered to replace it.

Mrs Deveney, aged 33, said: “It was very sad when the bench was taken but this is a happy ending. It is a fitting new tribute to Chloe.”

Chloe attended the nursery but was struck down by meningitis 11 years ago.

The new bench was offered by Manny Beattie, who runs Caroman Ltd, and Ikon nightclub also pitched in to pay for half the costs.

Mr Beattie said: “It was a touching story. If we can help someone and put something back into the community then we’ll do that.”

Gary Woods, who manages the Ikon and Jaxx nightclubs, added: “It tugged on my heart strings. It was an awful thing to have happened and I just thought we could help.”

Yesterday, the bench was presented to headteacher Maureen Vickers, Mrs Deveney and her two children, William, aged three — who now attends the nursery — and five-year-old Jaicianna.

Staff at the nursery used to move the old bench around to different places in the grounds, but the new bench will be bolted down to prevent it being stolen.

Mrs Vickers said: “We couldn’t believe it when we realised it had been taken. We are very grateful to Manny and Gary. I’m sure the children will be thrilled with the new bench.”

steven.thompson@ theboltonnews.co.uk