A Leeds school’s staff and pupils have paid moving tributes to a youngster taken from them at the tragically early age of five.
Youngsters at Pool Primary School held back their tears as they officially opened a new playground in memory of fellow classmate Colin Reilly.
Colin died two years ago after he contracted pneumonia at the age of five.
The brave youngster, who was constantly on oxygen because of chronic chest problems, was remembered by his classmates at a special ceremony.
His parents Mick and Samantha Reilly cut the special green and yellow ribbon to “Colin’s Cottage” in the school’s new play area.
A plaque above the door dedicated to the youngster remembers “a little boy who lived to play”.
Heartbroken mum Samantha Reilly said she was proud that Colin’s memory was being treasured by the school.
Paying tribute to her son she said: “When the school got in touch to tell us what they were doing I felt extremely proud.
“Colin was such a lovely boy and he made an impression.
“He was unbelievable and had the best sense of humour.
“He lived his life absolutely to the max.”
Colin and his sister Emily were adopted by Samantha and her husband Mick in 2009 after living with the couple for three years.
Colin, who was just a year old when he came to live with them, required specialist medical attention because of his chronic lung condition.
He was fed through a tube and needed physiotherapy to help him cope with day to day life.
The youngster spent time at Leeds General Infirmary and staff at the hospital even had a special bear named after Colin.
The bear, who has his own photo wall, has been snapped on cruises, holidays and trips across the globe.
Colin, who had attended the school for nearly two years, tragically died after developing pneumonia in October 2010.
Proud mum Samantha added: “I just feel extremely proud.
“We don’t forget Colin and he was a massive part of our life.
“It’s really difficult to have lost him and we miss him all the time but we have to stay positive.
“It is really difficult to lose your children.
“We know that rather than having a sad life Colin had a really good life.”
Comments