FIVE thousand pounds has been donated to an Oxford children's hospice in the name of a Swindon boy who died there almost one year ago.

A large number of the donations made in memory of seven-year-old Ollie Samways to Helen & Douglas House have come from complete strangers to his parents.

Mum Marie McVicker, 32, of Alanbrooke Crescent, is overwhelmed by the generosity shown by those touched by Ollie's story, which was characterised by the fight he showed in his short life.

Born with brain damage, Ollie suffered with cerebral palsy and dealt with epilepsy, visual impairment and respiratory problems.

He won a number of admirers across Swindon and at the hospice for the strength he showed in tackling the disease and enjoying life to the maximum.

“These have been coming from people I have never, ever met. It’s just amazing. We are nearly at £5,000 with all the events," she said.

"It was the fight he showed. If he could serve the seven-and-a-half years he did, so poorly, people can do anything."

In the immediate aftermath of his funeral at Holy Rood Catholic Church, there was more than £1,300 donated directly to the hospice.

Since then, Marie herself has staged coffee mornings and been involved in other fundraising events for her son's legacy.

The latest fundraising drive is coming from cousin Megan Duffy, who will run the Cardiff Half Marathon this weekend in the colours of Helen & Douglas House, with Ollie's name on her vest.

There are also plans afoot for a six-hour zumbathon somewhere in Swindon, although Marie would like to hear from anyone willing to offer a venue.

With the size of donations coming into the hospice, the relationship between Ollie's family and the charity has gone from strength to strength.

"One of them said 'we aren't surprised because Ollie was amazing there,'" she said.

"I've just received a card from them to say thank you too. He's hugely missed.

"We were talking to them about how much he's missed and how they looked forward to seeing him every month."

Despite the bulging pot of money already sent in, Marie is keen to keep the momentum going.

"So many children around need to be supported by Helen House," she said.

"It doesn't get given any funding. They're a charity and without people fundraising, families aren't going to get the support we did.

"Even though he isn't here anymore, I still get wonderful support."

For more information on how to donate or offer a venue for the Zumbathon, call Marie on 01793 421091.