Residents of the Georgia neighbourhood where Bermudian Sherlene 'Star' Church and her husband were killed in June are planning a community park in memory of the couple.

The Columbus Ledger-Enquirer reported yesterday that locals in Melody Lakes, Waverly Hall, wanted to create a recreation area for youths which would be built and dedicated to the alleged murder victims.

Mrs. Church, 57, and her 62-year-old husband Jerry were beaten and kicked to death at their home on June 28, according to court papers.

A grand jury in the US ruled this week that two men and two teenagers should face multiple charges over the slayings.

The Columbus Ledger-Enquirer reported that Bill Waltman, chief of the Melody Lakes Volunteer Fire Department, which uses the area for training, had come up with the idea of a small park for youths several years ago but got little support.

Glendora Reeves, owner of the D&D Food Market in Waverly Hall, told the newspaper: "After the murders, Bill began to think about it again since youths were involved in what happened to the Churches.

"The playground would have a basketball court, some swings, a picnic area and walking trail. We're not saying it would reduce crime but it would be doing something good for the children."

The park is expected to cost between $35,000-$40,000 and the residents plan to ask Harris County Commission for financial help. An account has also been set up at First People's Bank in Hamilton, Georgia.

Mrs. Church, known in Bermuda as Star Swan, originally hailed from Pembroke but had lived in the US for more than 30 years. She married Mr. Church last December.