One hundred pansies have been planted in memory of gay murder victim Michael Causer outside his family home in Knowsley.
Marie and Michael Causer were joined by Mayor of Knowsley Cllr Dave Smithson, police officers, friends, neighbours, and LGBT youths in this symbolic event to commemorate the loss of Michael.
Michael, 18, died on August 2nd last year after being beaten in what police believed was a homophobic attack.
The Pansy Project is part of an initiative across the region, supported by Merseyside police, police authority and Citysafe to tackle hate crime.
Mum Marie Causer expressed her thanks for the "wonderful" response and support she and her family have received since her son's death.
Emotional Marie said: "We are delighted to be planting these beautiful flowers in Michael's memory.
"This is definitely something Michael would have liked, he loved flowers and he would have appreciated the thought behind the Pansy Project.
"When Paul approached us with the idea we were very happy.
"It's a statement against homophobia and something to remember Michael by.
"What happened to our son should never happen again.
"In this day and age we should all be allowed to be who we want to be.
"Michael was so vibrant and full of life, just like these flowers.
"We have received such wonderful support from people all over Merseyside.
"We thank and invite everyone to a candlelit vigil on 2nd August in St Nicholas Church."
As the year anniversary of the violent hate crime against Michael approaches, his family are still battling for justice.
James O'Connor, 19, of Runcorn, is currently serving a life sentence after admitting murder.
An appeal has been launched against the "lenient" suspended sentence given to Michael Binstead, 18, for perverting the course of justice.
Marie added: "We are glad and willing to take part in any project that will raise awareness against hate crime.
"We are still fighting for justice for Michael. It is uncertain what will happen next but we plan to fight all the way."
The Pansy Project was devised by artist Paul Harfleet, who has planted pansies internationally at the sites of homophobic hate crime.
He said: "I was inspired to begin the Pansy Project back in 2005 when I encountered three homophobic incidents in a single day.
"I considered how best to raise awareness, in a delicate way, able to suitably commemorate the victims of hate crime.
"The pansy was the perfect choice.
"Tackling the gay connotations it carries in an ironic way, but also its name translates in French as 'To pause or think' which is exactly what we hope people will do when viewing these plants.
"I have already planted a single pansy at the spot where Michael was murdered.
"I hope occasions such as this will help raise public awareness and encourage a change in attitudes."
"Homotopia Not Homophobia" is a programme of work designed to develop relationships between LGBT youths and all the partner organisations and to send a strong message across the region against hate crime.
Sunday 17th May was International Day Against Homophobia, the Town Hall and all police stations across Merseyside are flying the multicoloured rainbow flag, a symbol of gay pride, throughout the week.
This Saturday, 23rd May, will see a very special night of fundraising in Michael Causer's memory at the Fairfield Police Club, Prescot Road.
Tickets are £8 and will be available on the door. Please contact Marie Causer for further details on 0151 292 6845.
For further information about the Pansy Project visit www.thepansyproject.blogspot.com
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