An oak tree has been planted in Cefn Fforest Eco Centre in memory of a 12-year-old boy who was killed after being hit by a car.
Cole Roper, from Cefn Fforest, was riding his bike on Pengam Road, Aberbargoed, when the accident happened on September 7.
Around 50 people, including Cole’s family and friends, attended the vigil on Friday, October 4, which would have been his 13th birthday.
One of Cole’s closest friends, Emily Wilkins, had raised £300 towards the memorial.
Emily raised the funds from the money she received for her 15th birthday, as well as through a Facebook fundraiser.
Since Cole’s death, his liver has been donated to a newborn baby, while his kidneys have been donated to two men in their 30s.
Emily said: “It’s what he would have wanted. He saw an advert on the tele and said if anything happened to him he wanted his organs donated.”
Louise Phillips, a close friend of Cole’s family, spoke at the vigil, saying that Cole “won’t be forgotten” and that he “should be proud up there”.
Ms Phillips also spoke of how they opted to plant a tree instead of releasing balloons.
“Kids can come down here, share their thoughts and talk about Cole.”
Ms Phillips also urged people to respect the eco park and to not drop litter.
Speaking after the vigil, Ms Phillips said: “There was a great turnout. It was nice to see Cole’s friends and family here.”
Cole was a big fan of Liverpool Football Club, and so a number of people, including Cole’s father, wore Liverpool jerseys at the vigil.
In a statement released after Cole’s death, his family said: “Our beautiful boy Cole, a sensitive, smiley, fun loving soul.
“Words cannot describe how much he will be missed. Thank you from all of the family for the condolences shown at this time.”