Jason Aldred, of Lytham, lost eight-year-old Joshua – whom he described as his "beautiful boy" – in tragic circumstances in June.

Mr Aldred launched a memorial trust fund in his son's name called The Joshua Aldred Memorial Trust Fund.

The trust will also be known as the Aldred Charitable Trust in memory of Joshua, the boy's mother Sarah and his grandad John, who both died of cancer.

Mr Aldred will be seeking formal charitable status for both trusts over the coming months.

The trusts will run a number of fundraising events throughout the year.

The first took place at The Island, St Annes, on October 4.

Mr Aldred said: "While I found the event understandably difficult, I felt more at ease once I knew everyone was enjoying themselves.

"I was really pleased when we calculated that through the event and donations provided by people who were unable to attend and sponsorship raised by Kirkham Grammar School for the dragon boat races held at Fairhaven, nearly £10,000 had been raised."

The champagne reception, buffet, auction and disco was attended by 220 people.

The buffet was donated by members of Lytham Christian Centre and Ansdell Baptist Church.

A signed Manchester United ball attracted the highest bidding of the night in an auction.

Joshua, who attended King Edward VII and Queen Mary School, was a staunch United fan.

His coffin was decorated with the United badge at his funeral.