THE memory of a young cerebral palsy sufferer who captured the hearts of his community will live on at the special school where he was a popular pupil.

Karl Graham, five, died of natural causes peacefully in his sleep last July and money donated in his memory has been used to buy equipment for Broadlands Special School, Roman Road, Blackburn.

On Tuesday Karl's mum, Julie, will be at the school to officially unveil the equipment. Most will be used in the multi-sensory room, which features equipment that stimulates the senses through sight, sound and touch and encourages children to learn, while other items will be used in other parts of the school.

A total of £1,600 was donated in Karl's memory. That amount was matched through the Seed Challenge Fund through Blackburn with Darwen Council, to give a combined total of £3,200. The Abbey National also matched the original £1,600 figure and with the agreement of Julie it was put towards the school's minibus fund. Julie works at the Abbey National branch in Darwen.

Karl was well known in the Bold Venture area of Darwen, where he lived with parents, until the family moved to Peregrine Drive, Lynwood, shortly before his death.

Although his condition meant he had no use of his arms and legs or speech, Karl was able to communicate.

"Karl was very well known and well liked and that's been reflected in the generosity of people who have given in his memory," said Julie.

Head Dorothy Mitchell said: "He had a lovely sunny smile, which we will always remember. The school and his family whould like to thank everyone who gave a donation in memory of Karl."