Parents of a young boy who died in a swimming pool accident said they have been moved by their community’s fundraising efforts.

A ladies Christmas fair was held at The Bull pub in Gosmore in memory of Oliver Else, who died after falling into a swimming pool in July 2010, just weeks before his third birthday.

The event raised nearly £1,000 for Addenbrooke’s Hospital’s Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU), where Oliver was cared for.

Oliver’s parents Lorna and Jason, who live in Hitchin, said: “We are very moved that the local community continues to remember Oliver and support PICU which did everything possible to help him. It is a wonderful legacy to our beautiful little boy who we miss so desperately now and always.”

The fundraiser was rganised by pub landlords Charlie and Kim Morrice and their daughter Stephanie Barthram.

Mr Morrice said: “We are delighted that our Christmas fair was such a success. All of our stallholders were extremely generous donating raffle prizes. Thank you to everyone who attended and supported us helping to raise a fantastic amount. Supporting Oliver’s Fund at PICU not only keeps Oliver’s memory alive but helps to make a tangible difference to other families in similar circumstances. We are proud to be part of that.”

Oliver’s Fund has now raised in excess of £40,000 for the Cambridge hospital’s PICU – to donate visit www.act4addenbrookes.org.uk/Tribute/Oliver-Joshua-Else