Fundraiser in memory of the 'happiest little boy' to take place today

As reported by the Star, three-year-old James Junior Leyland tragically passed away in his sleep on Sunday, February 11, after being diagnosed with autism, epilepsy, and sleep apnoea.

After the tragedy of James' passing, the family has been overwhelmed with support as countless messages of condolence have been sent their way.

A fundraiser set up to give James to "send off he deserves" has also smashed through its initial target to raise more than £3,500 for the family, while a balloon release and charity football game brought together dozens of people in James' honour last weekend.

To further this support, a family fun day has been organised at the Derbyshire Hill Family Centre in Parr today (Sunday, March 3), to raise money for the family and bring the community together in his memory.

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James tragically passed away in his sleep on February 11 (Image: Michelle Gormley)
James' mum Michelle, who was her son's full-time carer, said she was always pushing for more answers on his condition as he was a frequent visitor to the hospital before his passing.

While his death has devastated the family, Michelle said that they have took great comfort from the messages and support from the community.

Michelle, from Parr, said: "It's been overwhelming really because we've had so many messages and people knocking on our door and giving us gifts, or donating to the raffles and fundraiser online.

"It's so lovely to think that my son and his story have touched so many other people, it's amazing."

James was described as being the happiest little boy (Image: Michelle Gormley)
With James' story pulling on the heartstrings of many people in the community, the Earlestown Athletic charity game brought together multiple teams from the younger age groups right up to Open Age and veterans teams.

There was also a bouncy castle for kids, people in fancy dress, as well as a raffle and food and drinks also on offer, while dozens more came to release balloons in James' memory close to the family home last week.

The Derbyshire Hill event will continue this goodwill before the three-year-old's funeral, and will offer raffles, food and drink, and family friendly activities.

James with his two older sisters (Image: Michelle Gormley)
James’s funeral will be on Friday, March 15 at 11.30am at Greenacres in Rainford, with guests asked to wear bright colours in honour of the three-year-old and his autism diagnosis. 

The fundraiser for James' family can be found here while a separate fundraiser from his nursery teacher, who will be running the St Helens 10k in his honour can be found here.