A nursery transformed into a sea of blue in memory of a little boy with an 'infectious smile', who died at the age of just 20 months. Since his death in May 2021, his and his twin brother Tommy's nursery Heaton Dene Day Nursery, in Westhoughton , pay tribute to the youngster by holding “Arthur’s Day” every year – an activity-packed day raising money for Derian House, the children’s hospice that cared for him, and continues to care for his family. This year’s annual celebration saw children and staff dress in blue, Arthur’s favourite colour, and celebrate with bubbles, balloons and blue-themed games – along with a special visit from Disney characters.
At the heart of the day was Arthur's twin brother, Tommy, who will turn five in September and will graduate from nursery this year to start school in autumn. As this year was Tommy’s final Arthur’s Day at Heaton Dene, the nursery decided to take part in a sponsored walk around the playground to raise even more money for Derian House – with Tommy taking part in his brand new walker. The final fundraising figure is to be revealed on Tommy’s graduation day at the end of summer.
Mum Daniella Crossman, 27, of Westhoughton said: “As time passes, people forget about anniversaries. But for us parents, losing a child still feels like yesterday. I love that the staff and children at Heaton Dene celebrate Arthur's Day every year; it keeps Arthur’s memory alive.
“Arthur's day was truly amazing this year, it felt.