08 August 2023 , 18:50
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A mum has paid tribute to her "much loved little boy" who died after he was hit by a van.
Schoolboy Layton Harrison was described as "the most energetic, happiest boy you would ever meet" by devastated mum Stacey Bailey. She has described how "part of me went with Layton the day he died".
The eight-year-old tragically died in hospital after he was hit by a black Transit van while playing outside his home in Penwortham, Lancashire, on Tuesday last week. Emergency services including an air ambulance rushed to the scene and took him to hospital, but sadly doctors were unable to save him.
In a tribute released through Lancashire Police, Ms Bailey said: "Layton was a much loved little boy by all who knew him. He was my world and my best friend. A part of me went with Layton the day he died. He lit up every room he walked into.
"He was the most energetic, happiest boy you would ever meet. His carers are the most selfless carers I’ve ever known; they adored Layton and loved him like their own.
Baby boy has spent his life in hospital as doctors are 'scared' to discharge him
Floral tributes left near the scene in Penwortham, Lancashire (James Maloney/Lancs Live)"I can’t thank them both enough for the love and care they gave my son during the past two years. I would like to say a big thanks to the police and the staff at the Royal Preston Hospital for their work they have done and the support shown to myself and carers during this difficult time.
"Myself and his carers would like to grieve in peace now as we try to come to terms with what has happened. RIP my beautiful baby boy, you will never be forgotten."
Layton's death has sparked an outpouring of grief, with a fundraiser launched to give him the "send off he deserves", describing the youngster as someone who "lit up so many lives". Lancashire County Council has meanwhile ordered a safeguarding review into his death.
PC Simon Grounds of Lancashire Police’ Specialist Operations Department, said: "We kindly request that Layton’s family and friends are now given the privacy and time to grieve."
A Go Fund Me has been set up in Layton's name, in order to raise money to pay for the youngster's funeral. Set up by Jenny Armer, the page aimed to raise £3,000 and has collected £4,110 so far. You can donate to the Go Fund Me page here.
Anyone who witnessed the collision or saw either Layton or the van in the moments before and haven’t yet spoken to police are being asked to make contact. Call 101 quoting log 0971 of August 1.