William Eichler 14 July 2025

Councillors hold minute’s silence for girl killed by tree

Councillors hold minute’s silence for girl killed by tree image
Southend-on-Sea City Council offices. © Jimj0will / Shutterstock.com

Councillors in Southend-on-Sea held a minute’s silence in memory of a seven-year-old girl who was killed by a falling tree.

Leonna Ruka, from Dagenham in east London, had been visiting Chalkwell Park in Southend-on-Sea with family on 28 June.

Four other children were also injured and Leonna’s six-year-old cousin remains critically ill in hospital.

At a meeting of Full Council last week, the Worshipful the Mayor, Cllr Nigel Folkard, led a minute's silence in memory of Leonna.

A council statement said, ‘The council and the wider Southend community stand united together in grief and support during this difficult time.’

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Head of Democratic Services, Elections & Monitoring Officer

Harborough District Council
Grade 12 £67,236 – £71,223 plus £3000pa Statutory Officer Allowance
We are looking for an accomplished and proactive leader for our vacant post of Head of Democratic Services & Elections Market Harborough, Leicestershire
Recuriter: Harborough District Council

Chief Executive

Westmorland and Furness Council
£188,227
Join us on our journey Cumbria
Recuriter: Westmorland and Furness Council

Director, Local Government Reform and Devolution

Essex County Council
Up to £150,612pa
Shape the Future of Essex Chelmsford, Essex/Remots
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Senior bridge Engineer - WMF2212e

Westmorland and Furness Council
£47,181 - £48,226
You will be the key responsible engineer for this area and will also provide technical advice and guidance to our team Cumbria / Various
Recuriter: Westmorland and Furness Council

Lead Approved Mental Health Professional - WMF2213e

Westmorland and Furness Council
£56,883 - £59,198
Are you a passionate, experienced Approved Mental Health Professional Cumbria / Various
Recuriter: Westmorland and Furness Council
Linkedin Banner