A Birmingham mother has spoken of her heartbreak after the sudden death of her 38-year-old son, Benny Watton, a scaffolder who had moved to Torquay in 2022 and became a well-known figure there. More than £8,500 has been raised to cover the cost of his funeral, which is scheduled for September 11.
Benny, originally from Northfield, died on August 6. His mother, Nadia Burke, told BirminghamLive that he was a “larger-than-life” character who could “light up a room”. She said: “He was extremely loved, I've probably had 1,000 messages and it's a comfort. An absolutely beautiful soul, my heart is broken.”
Tributes planned in Birmingham and Torquay
Benny was a passionate Birmingham City fan, and it is expected that the Championship club will hold a tribute at their home EFL Cup match against Brentford on Tuesday, August 25. In addition, a special event is planned for August 28, when catering business Zo Co Company will rename its menu after Benny at The Hayes cafe and football pitch centre in Kings Norton.
Ms Burke, 55, said that Benny was known in every part of both Birmingham and Torquay. She added: “In Birmingham and Torquay, Benny was known in every part and full of love. Speaking to people, when they were going through issues, he helped others through their pain. He had the most infectious smile and laugh imaginable. An extremely handsome boy who made an impact on everyone he met and would light up a room.”
Family’s year of loss
Ms Burke described the past year as an “abundance of pain”, having also lost her mother, whom she called her “soulmate”, and her 17-year-old dog. She said: “This year's been an abundance of pain, I can't comprehend it. I'm numb with shock. He knew three people when he moved to Torquay and the town is absolutely devastated too.”
Benny moved to Torquay to work for a friend’s scaffolding company and quickly became “a big part” of the Devon town. His funeral is due to be held on September 11, and Ms Burke said it will not be a traditional wake. She explained: “On September 11, it won't be a wake. It will be the best send-off ever and a celebration of his life.”
Community support and future plans
The fundraiser, which has raised more than £8,500, will help pay for the funeral. Ms Burke said she hopes to do something in memory of Benny once she is able. She added: “When my head's in the right place, I will aim to do something in memory of Benny.”
The outpouring of support has been significant, with Ms Burke noting she has received around 1,000 messages of condolence. The tribute events in both Birmingham and Torquay reflect the impact Benny had on two communities, and the fundraiser continues to accept donations to support the family during this difficult time.
