THE parents of a Chippenham youngster who never let his disabilities stop him enjoying life have thanked the professionals who helped care for him.

Around 200 people joined parents Steve and Susy Woodley for the service after their son Sam died, aged 11, on October 31.

The service took place at West Wiltshire Crematorium, with a gathering at Chippenham Town Hall afterwards.

In their address his parents said: “Our son Sam was an amazing little boy, an incredible gift.

“Despite facing so many challenges in his short life Sam was always smiling and never complained, he was just a joy to be around.

“Sam made us proud every day of his life, he was an inspiration, his smile was infectious and would light up the room as he touched everyone he met. Having Sam in our lives made us all better people.”

Sam, who lived with his parents in Chippenham, started having seizures when he was just three months old, which over a period of time, left him severely disabled, with significant health issues, so he needed special care around the clock.

A pupil at St Nicholas School, Sam enjoyed many adventures.

“He was well travelled in his 11 years,” Mr Woodley said. “From narrow boating around England to walking in Pembrokeshire and the Lakes and camping in Weymouth. Sam swam with dolphins in Florida and loved chilling on his lounger next to his mummy in Spain, Greece and France.”

Sam spent time at Bristol’s Charlton Farm Hospice, the Royal United Hospital in Bath and Bristol Royal Hospital for Children.

His health had deteriorated over the last two-and-a-half months. “Although he had his problems, this was unexpected,” Mr Woodley said. “It came out of the blue.

“I want to say how fantastic the specialists were in the way they dealt with Sam. The hospice was amazing. Sam was loved by everyone, and he loved life.”

Donations to Children's Hospice South West can be made through chsw.org.uk.