A grieving mum whose five-year-old boy was killed in a tragic quad bike accident has paid tribute to her “happy and sporty” son.
George Davenport, from Folkestone, was visiting his grandparents when he lost his life in the crash in County Kerry, Ireland.
Now, a year on from the tragedy, his mum, Laura Browne, will be returning to Ireland to climb a mountain in her son’s memory.
The youngster had always wanted to scale Mount Brandon, which stands at 952 metres tall and is one of the 10 highest peaks in the country.
Ms Browne, 41, says the family will take on the feat in his honour.
“The money raised will go towards George’s headstone. He’s buried in Ireland with my two brothers,” she said.
He was my pinball machine once, I used to say. He was very athletic and accomplished greatness in all that he attempted.
He cherished Ireland over all other places. There, he felt liberated.
Four days after George’s death anniversary, on August 10, is when the family hopes to climb the mountain, but weather circumstances may prevent them from doing so.
George’s mother called him a “huge Manchester United fan,” and the two of them watched every match on television with his father.
She continued, “He loved going to school and adored his family and friends.”
“It was ultimately tragic, even though he was doing what he loved most.”
“George modelled love for all of us.
“It has been an incredibly difficult time for all of us. George used to light up every room he walked into.”
Ms Browne moved to Folkestone from Ireland at the age of eight and says she loves living in the seaside town.
The family have currently raised more than £800 on their GoFundMe page and says they are “undecided” on what to do with the leftover money after purchasing a headstone.
They have already previously raised £2,000 for Winston’s Wish charity and have a bench and tree in Sandgate Park in George’s memory.
Ms Browne admits the climb “won’t be easy” but is confident they will be able to complete the feat.
She added: “It’s going to be very challenging – it’s a good six-hour trip.
“I haven’t done any preparation but I’m just going to go for it!
“If there are any clouds in the sky then you have to turn back – you don’t want to get caught in a storm.”
George attended Stella Maris Catholic Primary School in Folkestone and Ms Browne says they have been “incredibly supportive”.
The mum, who works in Hythe View care home, has been off work since George’s death and has thanked them for their support.
George’s dad, David Davenport, has continued to work throughout the past year in order to support the family.
“The amount of love and support we’ve had from our family and close friends has been amazing,” she said.
“I can’t thank people enough who have donated already.
“I want to thank the teachers at Stella Maris and Littleoaks Nursery for their continued support.
“Also, I want to express my gratitude to the Folkestone Collective for their very kind donation.
“This kind of support has helped us get through the past year.”
