Family pay tribute to 'cheeky' boy, 5, who was killed after he was struck by a mirror in a department store

The family of a ‘cheeky’ five-year-old boy have paid tribute to their son who was killed after being struck by a mirror at a department store.

Freddie Farrow was admitted to hospital in a critical condition after the incident in Fenwick on Colchester’s high street on 27 July.

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Essex Police said the little boy had sustained a head injury and he sadly died in hospital a few days later on 2 August.

A ‘lovely little boy’

Freddie’s mother, Natasha Ingham, paid tribute to her little boy in a statement released through the police, recalling how the five-year-old was “always smiling” and brought “so much happiness to everyone who knew him”.

Ms Ingham said: “He will never leave us. He will be with us every single day throughout all our lives – until we see him again.

“As a family we are devastated by his death. He was such a lovely little boy – and very cheeky in a lot of ways.

“Everyone who knew Freddie just loved him – he was that kind of boy. He was always smiling and he really loved going to the beach.”

Ms Ingham explained that Freddie would pick her flowers and tell her he loved her, while his father, Andrew Farrow, spoke of his fun-loving and adventurous nature.

Mr Farrow added: “I am grateful for the time we had with Freddie.

“Every day he was loved and cherished and brought so much happiness to everyone who knew him.

“Freddie, his brother and sister were inseparable and I know for sure he will be watching over them.

“Freddie was an expert Lego builder, confident swimmer, enjoyed crabbing and park running. He had such a contagious laugh and always pulled funny faces.

“I will miss you Fredboy, so, so much… and until we meet again, I love you.”

Mr Farrow thanked everyone who tried to help Freddie and who have been supporting the family since the tragedy.

‘He will be in our hearts forever’

Tributes to Freddie were also paid by his primary school who praised his sensitive and caring nature, adding that staff and pupils are still coming to terms with his loss.

Polly Bradford, head of school at Gosbecks Primary School, said: “We are still coming to terms with this devastating loss as a school, and our thoughts and sympathies are with Freddie’s family at this distressing time.

“Freddie was a little star. His sensitive and caring nature shone through with his friends, who he always looked out and cared for.

“His unique character and lovely smile touched all who knew him.

“Freddie was a credit to his family and his kindness and thoughtfulness will be sorely missed by his teachers and friends.

“Words cannot describe the utter loss felt by those who cherished Freddie.

“Our deepest sympathies and condolences are with those who knew and loved him; he will be in our hearts forever.”

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