THE family of a South Ockendon five-year-old who died in an incident at his home are slowly coming to terms which the horrific pre-Christas event and are planning how best to remember his short life with money raised through a fundraising page that smashed through its target in days.

Lincoln Button died at an address in Windstar Drive, on 15 December in an incident that has subsequently led to his mother, Claire Button, 35, of the same address, being charged with his murder.

The death of Lincoln, who was a pupil with special needs who attended Bonnygate Pprimary School in the town, has left his loved ones feeling "broken", a member of the family has said.

Jamie Warren is a cousin of Lincoln's father, Nicky said: "Life will be forever different now", particularly for his cousin and Lincoln's grandmother.

Mr Warren said Lincoln, who was always happy, was autistic and non-verbal, and was "a bit cheeky".

Lincoln Button.

"He was an all-round happy kid, who loved his toys," said the 32-year-old, speaking to the BBC.

"He really liked rainbows, Yorkshire puddings, trains and buses.

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Mr Warren said his family was "really close" and had rallied together to be there for each other in the aftermath.

"It's sad for me but seeing Nicky and Lincoln's grandma, seeing how broken they are as a family, is awful," he said.

"You wouldn't wish it on your worst enemy, especially just before Christmas.

Mr Warren said the community spirit shown to help the family showed "good humanity" during dark times

The South Ockendon community rallied to support Lincoln's family. Tributes were laid and on Christmas Eve, many families turned their festive lights off in tribute.

The community spirit shown after an online fundraiser was set up by Mr Warren to help with funeral costs had been "overwhelming", he said.

It surpassed a £5,000 goal within 48 hours and the family has been thinking of ways to honour Lincoln's memory with any funds that are left over following the funeral. The appeal currently stands at £7,197 and donations continue to be made daily.

"I want to make sure whatever we do next is a fitting tribute for Lincoln," added Mr Warren.

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"Such a sad situation has brought some good in the sense of the community coming together and helping out.

"People have resonated with what's going on and giving donations is beyond belief.

"It goes to show there's good humanity in such a horrible world we are living in."

UPDATE: On 14 January, with the appeal having reached £8,177, organisers of the appeal closed the site for donations.