THE memory of a much-loved Bournemouth schoolboy lived on when a pirate play ship was launched in his honour.

Taylor Fish from Ensbury Park died on February 18 this year, three days after suddenly collapsing at his cousin’s birthday party.

A scan at Southampton hospital showed Taylor had a brain stem tumour and, despite efforts to save him, he passed away, 16 days before his ninth birthday.

The Jolly Taylor was launched by his mum Rachael during a pirate fun day to celebrate his life in the grounds of Kingsleigh Primary School.

Rachael, and Taylor’s dad Steve, are now raising funds for the charity Hammer Out Brain Tumours. She said: “We had never even heard of this type of tumour and have since found out it mainly affects children aged between five and 10.

“We want to raise awareness and support other families.

“Taylor was the happiest boy we knew, always polite and loved life. We were more like best friends than mother and son.

“Steve and I are determined to keep Taylor’s memory alive.”

Headteacher Richard Gower, who dressed as a pirate for the special occasion, said: “The play ship is a fitting memorial to a much-loved pupil.

“Taylor’s family and friends decided it would be something the children would love to use and play with for a long time.”

PTA chairman Janet Farmer, who organised the fundraising event, said: “We raised around £10,000 for the ship. Taylor was an absolute delight. He had lots of friends and they all wanted to celebrate his life.

“Now they can play in his ship which has plaques in his memory. Taylor was always smiling and happy, that’s why we called the ship The Jolly Taylor.

“We want to raise as much money as possible for his parents’ chosen charity and invited every school within a five-mile radius to get the local community involved.”

For more information visit trust-taylor.co.uk