The building firm, which is currently carrying out the construction of 31 flats in Carrick Street on behalf of Ayrshire Housing, pledged to support Forehill Primary School in the town, with the creation of the garden space, as part of its community benefits programme.

The garden and patio area in the school’s playground, which also includes planters and a memorial bench, which was designed by the pupils and created by The JR Group for pupils and staff at the school to rest, reflect and relax.

David Watson, head teacher at Forehill Primary School, said: “We’d like to thank everyone at The JR Group for their enormous support and assistance as we created our memory garden in the grounds of the school.

“Children and staff were keen to have something in the school as a memorial for our dear colleague and friend and we are grateful to The JR Group for helping us to bring the children’s vision and idea to reality.”

Gary McGregor, managing director for The JR Group, said: “Giving back to the communities that we help to build is a core element of our business here at The JR Group. As soon as we heard the vision of the staff and pupils at Forehill Primary School, we were more than happy to support them in the creation of the memorial garden, to help them pay their respects to their colleague and mentor.

“It was a great privilege to work with the local school and help create a fitting tribute and we hope it will be a place of comfort and reflection for the pupils and staff alike.”