The funeral of schoolboy Lucas Dobson, who lost his life after falling into the River Stour last month, will be held on September 13 – the date of what would have been his seventh birthday.
Despite Nathan and other adults jumping into the water to rescue him, Lucas could not be found.
A huge search was mounted by emergency services and hundreds of volunteers over the course of four full days. Lucas’s body was recovered on Wednesday, August 21, on the fifth day of the search.
The youngster’s dad Nathan has now confirmed the date of Lucas’s funeral, adding: “(It) is for everyone and anyone that would like to come to pay last respects to the little boy that brought so many people and so much love together.
“Friday the 13th is his birthday and the day we lay him to rest. Unlucky for no-one on this day.
“There are so many flowers and 99% of them will end up in the bin, rather than spend more money on something to be thrown away and go to waste. we are raising money for the awareness campaign to improve river safety and also giving donations to all the unpaid emergency services that were involved in searching for our amazing little boy.”
Donations can be made direct or by getting in touch with the family, Further details will be released in the coming week.
Thanking the community for the massive support shown to the family and during the search for Lucas, Nathan added: “Just because we are laying him to rest it’s not goodbye from us or over in anyway. You will see all the progress and what is put in place for the river and safety awareness for a long time after.
“Thank you from the bottom of mine and Kirsty’s hearts, we love you all and are so grateful our little boy can make such an impact and difference to the world.”
The ceremony will be at 12.30pm at St. George’s Church in Deal on Friday, September 13.