AN ARMY of support will be striding out for the parents of a four-year-old boy who died tragically shortly before Christmas.

More than 100 people are expected to join Mark and Kelly Barrett, of Eastburn, near Keighley, and their five other children on a sponsored walk to raise money to pay for the funeral of their son, Ryan, who died suddenly from a twisted intestine.

Mr Barrett said support from friends, neighbours and the Eastburn community had been fantastic and that he his family would be on the seven mile walk.

"The support we've had has just been amazing, fantastic," said bank worker Mr Barrett.

"All the money raised will be going towards the funeral costs, which are about £10,000 including Ryan's headstone.

"Everyone will be setting off from Bingley along the canal at 10am on Saturday and we will be going along to support everyone who's taking part."

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Ryan suddenly became ill, with stomach ache and sickness, on the evening of December 14.

His condition worsened during the night and his dad took him to the emergency department at Airedale Hospital.

Despite every efforts to save him, Ryan died within two hours.

His funeral took place on Christmas Eve.

The sponsored walk begins at Bingley Three Rise locks at the end of the metal footbridge and will take an estimated three hours to reach the Clog Bridge in Silsden.

It has been organised by the Barrett's neighbour, Sabina Waterhouse, who lives across the road from them in Sun Street, Eastburn, and friend Jenni Gaines.

"Everyone was completely shocked by what happened to Ryan and we wanted to do something to help the family," said Mrs Waterhouse.

She said it was a very friendly community where everyone knew each other and their all the children played together.

"There have been a lot of tears and lots of hugs.

"At first we thought it would just be done through the school, but the whole idea has taken off and gone really well.

"There will probably be at least 100 people including many children," Mrs Waterhouse said.

Participants are asked to wear bright, or Disney-related, clothing.

Goody bags will be given to all the children and Mrs Waterhouse asked parents to ring her in advance on 07717 783580.

Sponsor forms are available from the Morrisons Local in Steeton, the Cross Hills food Co-op and garage, the fish and chip shop in Eastburn and Eastburn General Stores.