Relatives of a four-year-old boy crushed when a heavy stone cross from a grave toppled onto him today returned to the cemetery where he died.
The youngster, named in tributes as Eli David, was apparently struck when the cross became detached from the base of the gravestone at Rawtenstall Cemetery, in Lancashire, on Saturday afternoon.
Police and paramedics were called but were unable to save him.
Today family members sobbed and hugged each other as they visited the scene of the tragedy.
A woman – believed to be the boy’s mother – also stood silently at the graveside. Others left floral tributes and a teddy bear.
One of the tributes read: ‘Our Darling Eli, Our Little Chaos Boy.
‘I hope you’re playing with the angels and that super grandad is giving you all the cuddles and kisses that we no longer can. We will love you and remember you always until we see you again.’
Another, attached to a bouquet of brightly-coloured sunflowers and chrysanthemums, said: ‘Vibrant flowers for our vibrant boy.’
Lancashire Police said the boy’s death was not being treated as suspicious and a file will be sent to the coroners’ office.
Rossendale Council also confirmed that it was working with the relevant authorities to determine the circumstances of the tragedy, which occurred around 1pm.
Local authorities have responsibility for maintaining graveyards and ensuring they are safe for visitors.
Andy MacNae, MP for Rossendale and Darwen, said: ‘My thoughts go out to the family and everyone affected by the tragic incident in Rawtenstall cemetery, which has claimed the life of a four-year-old boy.’
While councillor Liz McInnes, lead member for communities, housing, health and well-being at Rossendale Council, said the ‘whole of Rawtenstall is grieving’ the boy’s death.
‘This is a terrible tragedy,’ she said. ‘My heartfelt and deepest sympathies to the family of this poor boy. The whole of Rawtenstall is grieving.’
A council spokesman said: ‘We are deeply saddened by the tragic death of a young child at Rawtenstall Cemetery on Saturday. Our thoughts are with the family at this devastating time.
‘Rossendale Borough Council is working with all relevant agencies to understand the circumstances of this incident.’