Ghouls steal from Callum's memorial

Two teddy bears and a bouquet have been stolen in two attacks on the memorial alongside the A259, near the spot where nine-year-old CJ Oakford died on New Year's Day.

The thefts have come as a hard blow to CJ's family. Speaking to the Worthing Herald on Tuesday, Lynn Oakford, his mother, said: "This has been really upsetting for the family because we feel it's like someone stealing from CJ.

"We just can't believe someone would do this, but there really must be some sick people out there. I wish they knew how upsetting it was."

On Easter Sunday, a bouquet put down by Mrs Oakford and a teddy were stolen from the memorial.

And on Tuesday last week, a big brown teddy, which was tied to a post using fishing and crab line, was taken. Lynn, who often drives past the memorial on her way home from work, saw the teddy there at 4.45pm, but it was taken soon after. Thankfully, the thieves came to their senses and returned the bear a few days later.

Mrs Oakford added: "When the first teddy was taken we had to go out and buy another '” the big brown one '” but this was then taken and returned.

"Somebody must have heard about the situation because the other day we noticed a gorgeous white bear had been left at the memorial. It really brought a lump to my throat when I saw it."

A CONCERT held in memory of CJ has been hailed a fantastic success by its organisers.

Organised by Carol Carver and Kevin Chipper, the CJ Hit and Run Awareness Concert raised more than 800 for the Meningitis Trust and Victim Support.

The event, held in the Assembly Hall last week, saw nearly 300 people turn up to enjoy music, singing and dancing from Worthing Light Opera Company, Lindsey Field, Worthing Philharmonic Choir, the Orchards Middle School, Lee Everet, Anna Miles and more.

The cheques were presented to representatives of the two charities by CJ's family, including his mum Lynn.