A MOTHER whose 18-month-old son is the subject of a major investigation following his death at Liverpool's Alder Hey Children's Hospital, today spoke of her heartache at not being able to lay him to rest.

Jake McGeough died in the early hours of Sunday July 8, three days after he was admitted to the hospital and prompting a major investigation.

Merseyside Police have been notified and are working with health bosses to establish what happened. The hospital is conducting its own internal inquiry.

A post-mortem examination has been held, although no cause of death has yet been established, meaning the youngster's body cannot be released to his parents. Liverpool coroner Andre Rebello has been informed and an inquest may be opened. But Jake's mum Keira McGeough, 23, of Leicester Road, Blackburn, said the wait was proving unbearable for the family. She said: "It is so hard waiting this long. It has been four weeks since Jake's death and we want to bury him to give him some dignity.

"His brother and sisters still don't understand what happened and a funeral will help them. It's what Jake deserves."

Keira, who lives with partner, Wayne Knight, 30 and has three other young children, has chosen the venue of the funeral and the service, but cannot take it any further. She is planning a service at St Joseph's RC Church, Audley Range, followed by burial at Pleasington Cemetery. Rev David Featherstall of St Joseph's, said: "I have spoken to the family about having the funeral here.

"I think the coroner has to do his job properly and do a full investigation, but it is very hard on the family and must be very frustrating for them. The death of Jake is an absolute tragedy."

Mr Rebello said: "In complex cases of this nature it is usual for the release of the body to take some time and I have sympathy with the family in this respect.

"They are being kept fully informed with regards to the progress of the investigation.

"As yet a medical cause of death has not been ascertained.

"As soon as the cause of death has been ascertained an inquest will be opened and the body will be released.

"Jake's body will be released at the earliest possible opportunity, but if the family want any information, they only need to ring my office or the police family liaison officer."