Bye-bye little man

COMFORT: Jamie’s parents Kenny and Michelle

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JAMIE Heaton’s heartbroken mum wept as she read a poem during the funeral of her two-year-old son.

Little Jamie Heaton was the only fatality in the Shaw explosion which flattened their home and several others and left another man critically injured.

Jamie was watching television when the blast tore through the homes on June 26.

Yesterday his parents Michelle and Kenny led around 400 mourners in saying goodbye at St James Church, as hundreds more well-wishers listened to the service specially broadcast outside.

Jamie’s body was carried in a small white coffin with polka dots in red, orange, purple and green. Male mourners, including his father (36) wore ties in the same design — inspired by the little boy’s favourite children’s TV star, Mr Tumble. Flowers in red and orange spelled out “Jamie” and “Little Man”.

As the funeral began, the theme to “Thomas The Tank Engine and Friends” was played.

The Rev Lynne Connolly, who led the service, said Jamie’s family had appreciated the support shown by the local community since “that horrible day”.

“The tragic death of Jamie has devastated us all,” she said.

After “Amazing Grace” was sung, the toddler’s mother Michelle (31) stepped to the altar and sobbed as she read out “Footprints”.

The poem ended: “My precious, precious child I love you and would never leave you. During your times of trial and suffering, when you see only one set of footprints, it was then that I carried you.”

Mrs Heaton miraculously survived the blast that killed her son — she was hanging out washing in the yard.

After an emotional service, Jamie’s family emerged from the church in tears; a white dove and three balloons were released. Jamie’s mum was given a blue rose. Jamie’s body was taken to Hollingwood Crematorium for a private committal.










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