The parents of brave seven-year-old Harry Jones, who lost his fight against cancer on Monday, December 10, have paid tribute to their son.

Harry was diagnosed with a diffuse brainstem glioma on June 15, which affects children between the ages of five and nine.

Harry, who lived in Shirley, had been receiving radiotherapy for his unusual and complex kind of brain tumour by specialists at the Royal Marsden Hospital in Sutton.

Teachers, parents and friends at Harry's school Monks Orchard had previously raised £8,000 to allow the family to take a well-deserved holiday.

His parents Dave and Tina Jones said: "Harry Jones sadly passed away peacefully at home in Shirley.

"Harry attended Monks Orchard Primary School and was an avid Chelsea supporter.

"He was a very happy, go lucky little boy and will be greatly missed by all his family and friends."

Marion Haddad, headmistress at Monks Orchard school, said: "Harry Jones has bravely been battling against his illness for the last six months and we'll always remember him as a very courageous and lively boy."

The school is planning to hold a remembrance service early next term.

Harry's funeral was held at St Georges Church in Shirley on December 19 at 11am and was followed by a private burial.

Donations can be sent to: Samantha Dickson Foundation Trust, The White Horse, Chattalley, Dogmersfield, Hook, Hampshire, RG27 8SS.

December 20, 2001 09:30