A GRIEF-STRICKEN family is warning other parents to be extra vigilant for signs of meningitis following the death of their three year old son from the deadly meningococcal septicaemia strain.

Blond, blue-eyed Joshua Lamb (SEEN HERE) from Rimmer Grove in Parr, was first taken ill on December 23 and his parents, Janice and Stephen decided to get the on-call doctor out. However, when he hadn't come almost an hour later, Janice examined Joshua and discovered a rash on his stomach and rushed him straight to Whiston Hospital where meningitis was diagnosed. He was later transferred to Alder Hey Hospital where he died at 7.27pm on December 29, surrounded by his devoted family.

His parents, who have another son, Ben (four) held the funeral at All Saints Church and Joshua's school, Allanson Street Primary, have held a memorial service for the youngster.

Grandad, John Lamb told the Star: "We are all absolutely devastated by Joshua's death - he was such a lovely little boy. He was quite quiet but was always smiling and everyone loved him."

He also spoke of Joshua's love for his nursery school in Allanson Street, adding: "He always looked forward to going every morning and had made lots of friends there - not just the other children but the teachers too. And he loved watching the Teletubbies on TV - his favourite character was Dipsy. "The whole family are very grateful for everyone who has sent messages of support. Allanson Street School has built a memorial garden and also held a special remembrance service for Joshua. And all the teachers attended his funeral. We have also been told that the council will be planting a three year old spruce tree at Sherdley Park along with a plaque dedicated to Joshua and all these gestures mean a lot."

He added: "We felt we had to speak out about the dangers of this disease particularly in view of the other girl in Liverpool who also died. Hopefully, other parents will make sure they are aware of the dangers of meningitis."

Chris Maloney, headteacher at Allanson Street Primary said: "I am advising all parents that there is no need to worry unnecessarily. On the first day back after the new term, the school sent out letters to every parent signed by Dr. Basil Wiratunga, a consultant in Intercommunicable Diseases, based at the St Helens and Knowsley Health. We also enclosed leaflets containing a list of symptoms for parents to look out for. Joshua's death was a tragic incident but it is an isolated one."

Dr Basil Wiratunga told the Star: "At this time of year there are always some more cases of menigitis and I don't think the situation this year is worse than any other year. I have not heard of any other cases in St Helens. However, in situations like this, we always advise the school to send out a letter to the parents straight away as a reassurance measure. This contains guidelines on what to look for if your child becomes ill and the action to take."

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