A crowdfunding page set up to help the family of a two-year-old boy who died from meningococcal septicaemia has raised more than £2,500 overnight.

Mary Nimmo, a family friend, launched the campaign to help pay for the funeral of tragic Lucas who died on Saturday morning.

The JustGiving page pays tribute to the toddler who is described as a blessing to his mum and dad Sasha Oliver and David Smith.

Well wishers have inundated the site with donations and messages of condolence.

Read more: Madeleine McCann detectives following 'important new lead'

The page reads: “It happened so suddenly. One night he was running around, the next day what seemed like a tummy bug turned into a nightmare rush to hospital.

“We would like to raise funds to help the family with funeral costs for their baby boy Lucas who was two-years and five-months old to have a send off fit for a little prince.

“He was everything to them, he came into their lives at a low point when Angela’s dad and brother had recently passed away.

“They have been totally devastated with the loss of Lucas as he died within days of contracting meningococcal septicaemia.

“Lucas was a live wire, bubble and loving, he was a blessing to the family, a gift who loved to sing dance and could already count to 12.

Read more: Smoking in cars with children now illegal in Scotland

“He was a gorgeous boy, full of life and will be sorely missed.”

Grandmother Angela Oliver thanked the public for their generosity.

She said: “We are overwhelmed by the kindness, generosity and support from so many.

“Lucas is our brightest star in the sky and we ache every minute that he’s not here.

“I thank everyone from my heart and soul, it restores your faith in humankind. Lucas's Gaga (his gran name for me)."

To donate to the JustGiving page visit https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/BabyLucas.