A WOMAN has been charged with murder following the death of a young boy in South Ockendon. 

The charge comes a week after dramatic events at a home in Windstar Drive last Sunday (15 December). 

Police officers worked alongside paramedics to try and save the life of five-year-old Lincoln Button after being called to the address. 

They had initially responded to reports of serious concerns for the welfare of a child and a woman.

The woman was taken on to hospital for treatment and her condition did improve. 

She's since been discharged into custody and questioned. 

As a result of police enquiries, the woman, 35-year-old Claire Button, has been charged with murder. 

She is due to appear at Southend Magistrates' Court tomorrow (Monday, 23 December).

Tributes to Lincoln were laid near his home.

Detective Chief Inspector Alan Blakesley, who is leading the Essex Police investigation, said: "This continues to prove to be an immensely complex investigation into the death of a young child. 

"My thoughts and the thoughts of all the investigative team remain with the family of Lincoln Button as we continue to support them through this awful time. 

"It has taken a huge amount of work and dedication from the investigative team to reach this stage in our investigation and I would continue to call upon the public to refrain from speculating about the circumstances around this case. 

"Any case as harrowing as this will understandably attract attention.

"But as we move to the point of charge, the time has come to respect the judicial process and to continue allowing Lincoln's family privacy and the space to grieve." 

Meanwhile the community of South ockendon contunues to grieve. Today many families have turned off their Christmas lights as a mark of respect for the Bonnygate School pupil.

And a fundraising appeal has been launched to help with the cost of his funeral. It has raised £4,070 of a £5,000 target. It was set up by Jamie Warren, cousin of Lincoln's father Nicky, who gave full approval to the appeal.