A charity night in memory of a brave Accrington youngster raised almost £1,000 for a children’s hospice.
Eight-year-old Brandon McBurney died suddenly last December following a series of health problems.
Brandon, of Pansy Street South, Accrington, was in class five at White Ash Special School, and suffered from cerebral palsy, epilepsy, osteoporosis and was visually impaired.
He underwent several operations including a procedure to remove his voice box and spent a lot of time in hospital.
He passed away at the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital on December 18 after suffering a number of seizures.
Dozens of people turned out to his funeral at Antley Methodist Church in January.
Since then his parents Martin and Emma have managed to raise hundreds of pounds for Derian House Children’s Hospice, where Brandon enjoyed play and therapy sessions.
The couple were even kind enough to donate the youngster’s Christmas presents to raise funds for the cause.
Emma, 29, said more than 50 people turned out to the fundraising event at the Rhoden Inn, at Oswaldtwistle, this month where more than £921.05 was raised for Derian House.
Collections were made and football cards sold in the run-up to the night and there was a raffle and a karaoke disco during the St Patrick’s Day party on the night.
Emma said: “It was a good night and went really well. It was our idea, with the help of John the landlord, and I want to thank everyone who turned out.
“Derian House offered us respite for 14 nights a year as Brandon was severely disabled.
“They were a great support so we will carry on fundraising for them.”
Pub landlord John Coughill said: “On behalf of Martin and Emma McBurney we would like to thank all who donated so generously and helped organise this fund raising night.”
An inquest is due to take place within the coming weeks to determine the cause of Brandon’s death.
