Classmates and friends pay tribute after tragic incident

Everybody at City College Southampton is deeply saddened to hear of the tragic incident that took place at Bournemouth Beach on Wednesday 31st May. Students from across the college have paid tribute both online and in class to hospitality student Joe Abbess, who sadly lost his life.

Photo: Joe Abbess in the College's training kitchen

Hospitality student Ben McKinnon shared how Joe was one of his best friends. “He was the most brilliant, genuine and inspiring person I have ever met. Joe was a dear, dear friend of mine and an even bigger inspiration. I will never be able to express how much of an impact Joe has had on me and the others around him. A funny, endearing and kind young man with a bright future ahead of him.”

Leo Bennett and Jack Wells also studied alongside Joe. Reflecting about their classmate, Leo said: “Before half term, we worked together in the kitchen on a real catering event. He had so much talent and was very good at his job.” Jack added: “Joe was the life of the kitchen.”

Photo L-R: Jack Wells, Ben McKinnon, Leo Bennett, Jack Wood-Cheevers

Devastated upon hearing the news, his teachers commented: “Joe was an exceptional student who made a huge impact on both the hospitality team and his classmates and he will be deeply missed. We loved teaching Joe, he was a gem, with a great sense of humour and an undeniable passion for hospitality. He helped everyone and always stepped up as the first to volunteer, he was an exemplary student. Joe was always eager to expand his knowledge and took the time to talk to us about our experiences and to learn everything he could. He was looking forward to working towards his dream of owning his own restaurant. Joe’s legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.”

City College Principal, Martin Sim, added: “We send our sincere condolences to the family and friends of the two young people who lost their lives, which we now know included one of our Hospitality students, Joe Abbess. We have informed his class of this devastating news and are providing professional support to our students and staff through this difficult time." 

Students: If you need support, please speak to our Student Support team in college.

Staff: Please do reach out through our free Employee Assistance Programme. Details can be found on the staff intranet under HR > Wellbeing.