THE life, death and memory of a young boy who lost his battle with cancer was at the heart of a recent community celebration and fundraising event in Aveley.

The Pageant at the Best Western Thurrock Hotel, organised by local community and charity stalwart Courtney-Lee Collins, her friends and family, not only proved to be extremely enjoyable for all those who took part, but it raised money for Havens Hospice and gifts and items that were much appreciated by Thurrock Foodbank and the Isla's Journey charity.

The pageant featured a range of age groups of people who competed across three categories, denim wear, Disney wear and evening wear.

At the end of the evening the prizes were presented by Amy, Dawn and Ruby, mum, grandmother and sister to a youngster who touched Courtney-Lee's heart and became an inspiration.

She told Nub News: "As part of this we raised support for three deserving causes and are thrilled to say we donated £605 to Haven's Hospices. We also donated 1,041 items (just under half a ton) to Thurrock Foodbank who collected on the day and 714 items to Isla's Journey, a charity that makes care packs for families of premature babies.

"I was so thrilled that Amy and Dawn were able to be part of our event. I first met them when I  visited patients at Basildon Hospital children's ward dressed as Anna from Frozen.

Tyler and mum Amy.

"One patient who captured all our hearts was Tyler Witherall. It had us all in tears. He was a little superhero. Tyler was very quiet but very sweet and I really enjoyed the short time I spent with him.

"Since that day I kept in touch with his nan Dawn who informed me Tyler told everyone once I left that Anna was his girlfriend. I followed Tyler's Facebook page, 'Tyler's Battle' vigilantly, keeping up with his day-to-day fight with cancer alongside his outstanding achievements.

"I loved watching him enjoy his time with nan Dawn, his mum Amy, sister Ruby, Auntie Zoe and the rest of his family.

"Sadly in June 2018 Tyler lost his battle, aged just eight, but my mum and I were so honoured to be invited to his celebration of life which was a fitting tribute to the superhero he was.

"Tyler spent a lot of time at Havens Hospice who provided support and comfort to him and his family. Because of this experience Haven's Hospices is an organisation very close to my heart.

"We were so pleased to have Dawn, Amy and Ruby with us for our pageant and to present awards.

"And I would also like to thank Ashley and Isla from Isla's journey for coming along to present awards on the day and for the mugs donated to our judges."