The family of Andi Tollett are gathering to remember the Duchenne muscular dystrophy sufferer.

The 14-year-old died of heart failure brought on by the muscle-wasting condition, leaving devoted parents Angie and Andy, and sister Elle, seven, and brother Robbie, six, devastated.

Mrs Tollett, 43, of Inverness Road, Jarrow, said: "It's so difficult to put into words how we feel. People say it gets easier, but, trust me, it doesn't.

"I can remember every detail of that awful day, and I feel like my heart has shattered into a million pieces, but me being me, I put on a brave face.

"Andi's death was unavoidable due to him having Duchenne muscular dystrophy, and that is what hurts the most.

"It's soul-destroying knowing there was nothing we could do but be there for him.

"Since Andi died, there has been a huge hole in our family because he was larger than life, with a fantastic personality.

"I know he will always be remembered for that big smile he carried with him for 14 years.

"We all miss him so much."

She added: "We are going to spend the day with family, who are always there to support us."