Talented teen’s music played at his funeral in Meldreth

In a bittersweet reminder of his talents, a recording of piano music played by 18-year-old Edward Mallen accompanied his own memorial service at Holy Trinity Church in Meldreth.

Dad Steve said: “It was a very emotional and atmospheric occasion.

“Three of Edward’s friends – Luke and Josh Hebditch, together with Andrew Leslie – spent 48 hours installing a sound system in the church to play his music as a tribute. Edward was so talented, but incredibly humble.

“He used to do school productions with those lads. Edward was particularly fond of classical music, which was an appropriate fit for a funeral.”

A floral tribute laid outside the church in Meldreth for Edward Mallen's funeral (Image: Archant)

Steve and Edward’s mother Suzanne both paid tribute to their 18–year–old son – who had earned a place at Cambridge University – at the ceremony led by Rev Shamus Williams.

Most of the teachers from Edward’s schools attended, as well as around 100 of his friends and colleagues.

Edward suffered from depression, which came on very quickly and consumed him over a period of around a six to eight weeks before his death.

The family are researching how to raise awareness of mental illness among young people, in the hope of sparing other families the heartache they have suffered. Steve said: “We are researching what campaign to get behind in the way that Edward would have, strategically and thoroughly.

“It won’t bring Edward back, but if we can spare other families the pain and suffering we have gone through, it will be worth it. We will do all we can.”