The tragic loss of Matthew (5) and Adam (11) Stokes has shocked and upset their local community in Hinckley. It is not until such an awful event happens that people stop, think, discuss, and realize how intertwined and networked even our youngest members of society become in our daily lives.

We are parents of a boy in Adam's class who considered Adam to be his best friend - he is devastated with his loss, and for that of Matthew, and the impact on their family, school, and community.

Adam and our son texted each other each morning to plan their walk to school together with a group of close friends, they played each break and lunchtime at school, went around each others houses on the weekends, and when they weren't doing that they were playing Xbox games and talking together for hours. They also played two seasons of rugby together, and I spent hours on the touchline often talking and playing with Matthew as he watched his big brother play.

Our son feels a hole in his life and wishes to do something positive to help 'fill it' in memory of the boys.

In memory of Adam and Matthew we would like to raise money to fund a memorial from the people and community whose lives they impacted. Any remaining funds will be used to assist the family in this difficult time.

Thank you in advance for your support.