A HEARTBROKEN mum led tributes to her "energetic, happy" son after he was killed in a horrific van crash last week.
Stacey Bailey described schoolboy Layton Harrison as her "much loved little boy" after his tragic death in Penwortham, Lancashire.
The eight-year-old died in hospital on Tuesday after he was struck by a black Ford Transit van while playing outside his home.
In a tribute released through Lancashire Police, Ms Bailey said: "Layton was a much loved little boy by all who knew him.
"He was my world and my best friend. A part of me went with Layton the day he died. He lit up every room he walked into.
"He was the most energetic, happiest boy you would ever meet. His carers are the most selfless carers I've ever known; they adored Layton and loved him like their own.
"I can't thank them both enough for the love and care they gave my son during the past two years.
"I would like to say a big thanks to the police and the staff at the Royal Preston Hospital for their work they have done and the support shown to myself and carers during this difficult time.
"Myself and his carers would like to grieve in peace now as we try to come to terms with what has happened. RIP my beautiful baby boy, you will never be forgotten."
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SundayStar.co.uk is urging readers to donate to a GoFundMe site launched by friends of Stacey and her devastated family.
"Layton lit up so many peoples lives with his bubbly bright character and his gorgeous smile," explained the pal.
"In his short 8 years of life here with us and we will never ever forget the memories we have to treasure."
To donate, visit: https://gofund.me/1944cfb3
PC Simon Grounds of Lancashire Police' Specialist Operations Department, said: "We kindly request that Layton's family and friends are now given the privacy and time to grieve."
Anyone who witnessed the collision or saw either Layton or the van in the moments before and haven't yet spoken to police are being asked to make contact. Call 101 quoting log 0971 of August 1.
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