A school community has helped raise more than £10,000 to support the grieving family of an eight-year-old boy who has lost his battle with leukaemia.

Anesu Gumbo, a pupil at Lordship Farm Primary School in Letchworth, was diagnosed with leukaemia in 2019. 

Since then, he received two bone marrow transplants and spent months away from home in hospital in both Bristol and Manchester.

Headteacher Julie Petitt said: "Anesu fought bravely, with a smile on his face and jokes ready to fall from his tongue throughout this time.

"In summer 2023, following months of treatment, Anesu was tested and his bone marrow was shown to be clear of leukaemia. The Gumbo family were hopeful for his future.

"However, at a monthly test on April 30 this year, Anesu's blood results showed that the leukaemia had returned. He tragically died just six days later, on Sunday, May 5."

A GoFundMe page set up by Lordship Farm Primary School to help support Anesu's family after his death has so far raised more than £10,000.

Ms Petitt said: "We would like to help them as much as we can by making life a little easier moving forward, by supporting them to be able to celebrate Anesu's life in the way that they would like to, and by giving them some funds to do something of their choice as they adjust to life without Anesu.

"It’s amazing to see how much has been raised in such a short time. This money is allowing the family to breathe a little, with less stretch on finances.

"Importantly, they will be able to remember Anesu’s life both in the UK and with wider family in Zimbabwe as they want to.

"A huge thank you to everyone who has donated so far. This money will hugely support the family in the coming weeks and months as their journey continues.

"Much love to every single one of you for caring so much about beautiful Anesu and the Gumbo family."

To make a donation, visit gofundme.com/f/anesu-gumbo.