The family of young Daniel John Twigg who tragically lost his life to a dog attack have launched a fundraiser to ‘give him the send off he deserves’.
Three-year-old Daniel was attacked by a Cane Corso outside a property on Carr Lane in Milnrow, Rochdale, on Sunday, May 15. The youngster was rushed to hospital but died a short time later.
Daniel's family paid tribute to their 'happy, kind and caring little boy', saying he was ‘loved by everyone’. "He was brave, intelligent and full of many characteristics,” the statement, issued through GMP, said. “Daniel loved being with his whole family and will be missed by all.”
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A fundraiser to help cover Daniel’s funeral costs has now been launched by godmother Louise Shepherd with permission from his parents. “This is about giving him the burial he deserves,” Louise, 45, told the M.E.N.
“It’s to try and help the family through such a horrendous situation. A three-year-old boy’s life has ended in tragic circumstances and it’s not supposed to end that way. We want to give him the send off he should have.”
Louise, who said she has known Daniel’s parents for twelve years, said the fundraiser will cover the costs of the funeral service, which will hopefully include a horse drawn carriage and a head stone for Daniel.
She said she feels the fundraiser is part of her role as a godparent to step in and help the family. “It was an honour to be asked to be his godparent,” Louise explains. "I just feel it’s my duty as a godparent to give him the funeral send off he deserves. The godparent takes on a role to look after that child, so I just feel obliged and step in to help when I can.”
Since launching, the fundraiser has surpassed £1,000 of its £4,500 target. “It means a hell of a lot to the family,” Louise said. “They’re incredibly appreciative at such an incredibly tough time.”
“It’s a massive appreciation from the family as they really want to give him a proper sendoff. You don’t expect something like this to ever happen so you can never prepare for it.”
Police have confirmed that a 48-year-old man was arrested following the incident after handing himself in. Officers are continuing to investigate and anyone with information should share it via 0161 856 7386 or online quoting Operation Guernsey. Information can also be shared anonymously via the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
Click here to donate towards Daniel’s fundraiser.
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