Memorial unveiled to Leeds tot Skye Sutcliffe as runners show support

Skye's brothers Harvey (left) and Riley Sutcliffe

A special bench for Skye Sutcliffe was also unveiled during an emotional event at Middleton Park yesterday, held to coincide with Valentine’s Day.

Hundreds of people turned out in bright winter sunshine to remember the two-year-old, whose smile even as she battled two forms of blood cancer had inspired her family to hold the fundraiser.

Skye, from Middleton, lost her fight in December last year and the fun run has raised a total of around £3,300 for Candlelighters, the Leeds-based charity which has supported her family, and Delete Blood Cancer.

Amelia Sockett, Skye’s nana, said they were “over the moon” with the amount collected.

“It was very emotional,” she said.

“It was really good to see how much of an impact she has had. It was bittersweet, without a doubt, but it’s the best thing we can do in the situation.”

Skye was initially diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic and myeloid leukaemia when she was 20 weeks old and despite a bone marrow transplant, she relapsed late last year.

The first Running for Skye 5km event was held last year, and Amelia said they were already making plans for next year’s event.

The community living near the youngster had previously shown their support for her parents Amie Mills and Damion Sutcliffe through a Light Up the Skye’ lantern releases shortly after her death.

Her parents then fundraised for her memorial bench, collecting £1,000 in total.

It was unveiled yesterday by her family and the sky was filled with red balloons in her memory.

Around 200 people took part in the fun run, including joggers, walkers and parents with prams. The fundraising total from the day was also boosted by a raffle which included prizes donated by the White Rose Shopping Centre.

Amelia added: “We couldn’t believe the good weather. It was like she was watching down on us.

“It is very difficult at the moment. But for me personally, it helps to do something positive out of a very negative situation.”

A fundraising teddy bears’ picnic will be held in Tadcaster this summer.

To donate, visit justgiving.com/Skye-Sutcliffe1.