A town is rallying its support with messages in memory of a little boy who died after a long illness.

Cambs Times: James Minett of Whittlesey died at Milton Hospice. He suffered the rare disorder, Menkes.James Minett of Whittlesey died at Milton Hospice. He suffered the rare disorder, Menkes. (Image: Archant)

Once again Whittlesey is grieving for a youngster who was taken too young on the pages of its town’s Facebook page.

James Minett Overland spent his final days at the Milton base of the East Anglian Children’s Hospice (EACH) with his mum Emma.

He died from the rare disorder Menkes syndrome.

The last time the town flooded Facebook with support was when Effie Hadman, six, lost her fight against Batten Disease in February.

James’ mum Emma wrote on the page: “Little James Minett funeral is being held on May 2 from 2.30pm at St Mary’s where only immediate family will follow onto the crematorium.

“People are welcome back to the Ivy Leaf for refreshments where the immediate family will then join you after.

“We are asking for family flowers only and any donations made will be going towards Milton children’s hospice where James spent his last couple of weeks of his life.

“We are asking people to wear colours rather than black and white to represent James with his stimulation of lights bless him.

“RIP little man loves you millions from mummy xx Fly high little one.”

Colin Martin, who is the admin for Whittlesey and District Facebook page, said: “It’s with heavy heart I bring you the very sad news that little James passed away on Tuesday 18 in Milton hospice.

“Family would like to thank you for all your support during James’ illness.

“RIP little man from us all at Whittlesey and District Community Page.”

A huge family fun day fund raising event was held for James last year which was a successful all stars football match.

James had Menkes syndrome, a condition with no cure.

In his young life his mum Emma took him to Peterborough, Addenbrooke’s, Guy’s and Evelina Children’s Hospitals in London for treatment.

Menkes syndrome is a disorder that affects copper levels in the body. It is characterized by sparse hair, failure to gain weight and grow at the expected rate and deterioration of the nervous system.

Additional signs and symptoms include weak muscle tone, sagging facial features, seizures, developmental delay, and intellectual disability. Children with Menkes syndrome typically begin to develop symptoms during infancy and often do not live past three years old.

Early treatment with copper may improve the prognosis in some youngsters.