Published: Sunday, 7th February, 2010 8:00am

'You've got a friend in me' - forever

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CLOSE family and friends bid an emotional farewell to a cheeky chappy.

Four-year-old Declan Bennett inset, was laid to rest on Wednesday last week with a service at Bracknell's Holy Trinity Church.

Dad Paul Bennett helped carry the small white coffin into the church to the song 'You've got a Friend in Me' - from one of Declan's favourite films Toy Story.

In a heartfelt tribute to his son, Mr Bennett said: "Declan was such a caring little boy and would come up to you and give you a big cuddle.

"He has given us so much love and we are grateful for the time we had together.

"We just hope that wherever you are you are in a place where nothing can hurt you ever again."

A montage of photos, chosen by Mr Bennett and his wife Sherrie, were then played to Elton John's the Circle of Life.

Mr Bennett, who lives in Elizabeth Close, Bracknell, said: "We will always remember that cheeky smile. We had the boy that never grew up but you can now go and be Peter Pan and enjoy yourself once again."

Declan's auntie Hayley Courtney read out Twinkle Twinkle Little Star before Rev Jane Manley, who led the service, said a prayer.

The youngster was diagnosed with Hemopagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) in March and underwent a stem cell transplant at Great Ormond Street Hospital in September.

HLH means types of white blood cells build up in organs including the spleen, liver and destroy other blood cells.

He was taken into hospital on Christmas Eve with breathing difficulties where his condition deteriorated and was put on a ventilator. His parents made the devastating decision to turn off his life support 10 days later.

The coffin, which was covered in flowers spelling nephew and son and a floral picture of Woody from Toy Story, was then taken to Easthampstead Crematorium for a private family service.