Work set to start on Jamie’s dream park

Photo: Tim Bradley

THE family and friends of Jamie Heaton want to create a lasting memorial to the toddler at Bullcote Green.

Fundraisers in final push to hit £45,000 target

THE dream to create Something Special in memory of Jamie Heaton — who died in the Shaw gas blast — is about to become reality.

A fundraising group set up following the toddler’s death in June, 2012, has decided to start work creating a memorial park at Bullcote Green, Heyside, where Jamie took his first steps.

The group, now only £10,000 short of its £45,000 target, hope the park will be ready for the third anniversary of Jamie’s death.

Jamie was watching television when the blast tore through eight homes on Buckley Street. His mum Michelle was hanging out washing at the time.

Neighbour Andrew Partington, who was later jailed for 10 years for manslaughter and criminal damage, was left in a coma after the incident, with 40 per cent burns and a broken back. He had severed gas pipes in his house.

Maureen Goodwin, a friend of the Heaton family and a fundraising committee member, said: “We are meeting the council’s parks team this week as we feel that the people that have contributed to the fund so far want to see some progress and know what we are doing with the money.

“People have been so generous and we are so grateful. Now we are entering the final push for the last £10,000 and we would appreciate any help that anyone can give us, however small it may be.

“Bullcote Green is a special place for the family as it is where Jamie took his first steps. His parents want the park we create to set children’s imaginations running wild and we want youngsters of all ages and abilities to be able to use it and enjoy it.

“We will hopefully start work on the park as soon as possible while we continue with the fundraising.

“There is an annual fun day at Bullcote Green so we want to tie in the opening of the park with that so that we can get as many people as possible there and make it an event to remember.”

Future fundraising events include a live band at the Duke of York pub, a children’s talent show and a comedy and curry night.

Pupils from Crompton House School will also take part in a sponsored leg wax alongside Jamie’s dad, Kenny Heaton, today.

Anyone who wants to find out more about fundraising events taking place, or contribute to Jamie’s fund, can visit www.jamiessomethingspecial.co.uk.