King's Oak Primary in Bedford has opened a community hub named in memory of 17-year-old Thomas Taylor, who was fatally stabbed on 8 January. Family members said they were "overwhelmed" by the honour and hope the hub will keep his name alive while offering support to children and families. Two teenagers were later convicted in connection with his death: Bennett Ndenkeh received a minimum 22-year term for murder and Riaz Miah was jailed for eight years for manslaughter.
Family 'Overwhelmed' as King's Oak Primary Names Community Hub After 17-Year-Old Thomas Taylor
King's Oak Primary in Bedford has opened a community hub named in memory of 17-year-old Thomas Taylor, who was fatally stabbed on 8 January. Family members said they were "overwhelmed" by the honour and hope the hub will keep his name alive while offering support to children and families. Two teenagers were later convicted in connection with his death: Bennett Ndenkeh received a minimum 22-year term for murder and Riaz Miah was jailed for eight years for manslaughter.
02:51 PM, 11/15/2025Society
Community hub at King's Oak opened in memory of Thomas Taylor
The family of 17-year-old Thomas Taylor said they were "overwhelmed" after his former school, King's Oak Primary in Bedford, named a new community hub in his honour. Thomas was fatally stabbed on Greenhill Street on 8 January following a confrontation between two groups.
The new hub — opened on Friday at the school — is intended as a safe space where children and families can access support, including evening youth groups and counselling. School leaders say the centre is aimed at early intervention to help children find positive support networks before they turn to harmful alternatives.
Family reaction
Julie Longstaff, Thomas's grandmother, said the family discussed the plan together and were "amazed" and moved that his name will be kept alive.
Julie Longstaff: "We all discussed it as a family and thought it was amazing. We were overwhelmed by it — keeping his name alive."
Amy Longstaff, Thomas's aunt, said the family is still coming to terms with his death but is determined to use their grief to help the community.
Amy Longstaff: "We continue to keep occupied to do better for the community. It has been very tough and challenging, but as a family we have been getting through it. If we can save one child's life, that does me. I know we are doing something right."
Purpose of the hub
Sarah Ross, the school's assistant head, described the hub as part of an early-intervention approach. "Children turn to other groups for support and it's really hard to pull them back," she said. "That is why we are trying to start very early before it is too late." The hub will run into the evening and provide youth groups, counselling and other support services designed to help young people and their families.
Legal outcome
In October, 19-year-old Bennett Ndenkeh was convicted of murder at Luton Crown Court and told he would serve a minimum of 22 years in custody. An 18-year-old, Riaz Miah, was found guilty of manslaughter and given an eight-year custodial sentence.
The family and school hope the new hub will be a positive legacy for Thomas: a place where young people can find help, connection and a safer route forward.