An East Sussex charity set up in memory of a schoolboy, who died of cancer, is closing down, its trustees have announced.

The Oliver Curd Trust was started in 2008 by Richard and Sarah Curd in memory of their son, Oliver.

Oliver was diagnosed with Ewing sarcoma, a rare type of cancer that forms in the bones or the surrounding soft tissues, in April 2006, and died in November 2007, aged nine.

The trust, based in Peasmarsh, near Rye, provides holiday accommodation to families affected by childhood cancer and other life-threatening and life-limiting conditions, including those experiencing bereavement.

It has a lodge at Crowhurst Park, Battle.

A statement from Oliver's family and the trustees, posted on the charity's Facebook page on Wednesday (October 28), said: “It is with great sadness, careful consideration and much deliberation that we wish to inform our friends, supporters and families that The Oliver Curd Trust has made the difficult decision to begin an 18-month plan to wind down the charity, with our final closure taking place in May 2028, around the 20th anniversary of the trust. We hope to mark this milestone with a final farewell event.

“This decision has not been made lightly.

“For almost 20 years, The Oliver Curd Trust has enabled us to channel our grief into something positive, helping families facing challenges similar to those we experienced whilst caring for a seriously ill child and trying to navigate everyday life.

“We are incredibly proud and honoured to have provided much-needed breaks to more than 750 families, helping them create precious memories together, all in memory of our beautiful boy, Oli.

“Over the years, we have met so many amazing people and experienced extraordinary generosity, kindness and support. To everyone who has supported us, fundraised for us and championed our work, we offer our heartfelt thanks. Quite simply, none of this would have been possible without you.

“We appreciate the tremendous effort our supporters have made in raising funds for the trust, and we want to reassure everyone that all monies raised to date will continue to be used for their intended purpose. These funds will enable families to enjoy breaks at our lodge throughout the remainder of 2026, during 2027 and into early 2028. Bookings will continue as normal during this time.”

The trustees added: “As we begin this final chapter, our focus remains on providing families with the same support, care and opportunities to create lasting memories that have been at the heart of the trust since its inception.

“The proceeds from the sale of the lodge will be distributed to local charities whose values, outlook and objectives closely align with our own, helping to ensure that the trust's legacy continues to make a positive difference in the community for years to come.

“Nearly 20 years on from establishing the trust, we have reached a point in our lives where we need to acknowledge our own wellbeing and future. Whilst our commitment to the trust has never wavered, we feel the time is right to focus more on our family, our health and making the most of the years ahead.

“Thank you for standing beside us over the past two decades and for helping us create a lasting legacy in Oli's memory. With sincere gratitude, Sarah, Richard, Joe & Martha and trustees of The Oliver Curd Trust.”