Ricky’s mum, Suzanne Hedges, standing next to the bench in Gibbfield Close
The tribute has stood in Gibbfield Close, where the 27-year-old bouncer was brutally killed, since shortly after his death in September 2016.
But a complaint by a neighbour, who claims they are struggling to get interest in their property, has prompted London & Quadrant (L&Q) housing association to ask other residents in the road for their views on the bench.
Letters were sent to people living in the street, with Ricky’s family – who no longer live there – not told in advance.
Ricky’s mum, Suzanne Hedges, told Time 107.5: “It’s disrespectful. They should have informed us that this letter was going out.
“Everyone’s got a right to say if they don’t want it here … but not to inform us is wrong.”
Ricky’s family and friends stood by the bench in Gibbfield Close
People began receiving the letters on Saturday, 23 November – the day after the Hayden family marked three years since Ricky was laid to rest.
Suzanne added: “We didn’t need that (the letter) after the day before.
“To send it out and not inform us is heartless.”
Ricky’s dad, Paul Hayden, added: “I think London and Quadrant have done it behind our backs. They should have got in contact with us (before sending the letter out).”
Friends and family have rallied around them, with many contacting L&Q to complain about the way the issue has been handled.
A spokesperson for L&Q said: “Some residents in the area have contacted us to raise concerns about the memorial bench to Ricky Hayden.
“While we will always listen to concerns of all residents, we completely understand what a difficult and sensitive matter this is for Ricky’s family.
“At this stage we are just consulting and trying to gauge views on what the best way forward may be, and absolutely no decisions have been made about the bench. We will work with all parties to find an acceptable solution.”
