Happy heavenly 12th birthday Cole - mum of tragic boy marks his day with beautiful graveside tribute

Today should have been Cole Leighton’s 12th birthday - a day he would have spent celebrating with all his loved ones. Instead, his broken family have visited his grave to mark the occasion.

On January 6, Kim Leighton’s world turned upside down after a fire ripped through their family home at Clayton-le-Woods, leaving both her and her cherished 11-year-old son Cole fighting for their lives.

After a long and hard fought battle, Cole sadly passed away on Friday, May 29.

Mum Kim told the Post they were placing Cole’s ashes in the cemetery to mark his birthday alongside balloons and fond memorabilia.

An ashes interment service is a respectful ceremony where a loved one's cremated remains are buried in a permanent resting place they can visit and be with them and speak to them.

She said: “It should be Cole's 12th birthday today. A day all about Cole just how he always wanted it.

“Im asking if everyone could put on a happy birthday status for him, share a photo if you have one. If I got to see just one photo I haven't already this would be nice for me also.

“If you can please take a minute today to send my boy the happiest 1st heavenly birthday and show he may only of had 11 years with us but they was the best 11 years and we won't ever let him be forgotten.”

Charnock Richard Football Club also wished Cole a heavenly birthday.

A spokesperson for the club said: “Forever 11.

“Happy Heavenly Birthday, Cole.

“You may be gone, but you will never be forgotten. You will always be part of our team, our club and our hearts.

“We miss you more than words can say.

“Fly High Captain Cole.

“We’ll always have your back.

“From all your friends and coaches at Charnock Richard FC.”