LITTLE Benjamin Davey's family are hoping and praying that some good will come from his death in last month's storms.Today, The Evening Star prints in full his mum Veronica Deri's open letter to the community, many of whom have been shocked and touched by grief at Benjamin's death.

LITTLE Benjamin Davey's family are hoping and praying that some good will come from his death in last month's storms.

Today, The Evening Star prints in full his mum Veronica Deri's open

letter to the community, many of whom have been shocked and touched by grief at Benjamin's death.

GRIEF-stricken mum Veronica Deri today defended the decision which led to the death of her three-year-old son Benjamin.

Ms Deri urged people not to judge her harshly and to cherish their loved ones while they can.

Benjamin was killed during the hurricane-force winds 12 days ago.

His mother opened her heart to send a powerful open letter in the hope some good will come of the youngster's death.

Wracked by grief, Ms Deri shows great courage and humanity – calling on people to hold their hands up to the mistakes they all make and forgive others and to fight injustice in all walks of life.

Ms Deri, who lives with her partner and Benjamin's dad, Andrew Davey, in Looe Road, Old Felixstowe, was walking in The Grove woodland with her son when he was killed by a falling tree.

She said her decision on the tragic day was prompted by her desire to put Benjamin's happiness first.

Ms Deri's letter in full:

THANK you for all the kind thoughts, cards, letters and visits. These have given my family and me the love and strength to cope over the last few days.

Benjamin's death was a tragic accident. I realise there are those among you who feel I made an error of judgement. To answer that question: No, I hadn't seen or heard any weather reports.

Ben was a lively, demanding child whom we adored and this meant we put his needs and wants first – so watching the telly or listening to the radio wasn't a priority. Yes, when we went out on Sunday I felt the strength of that wind and thought this is a stupid thing to be doing, but I was happy to do it as Ben said he wanted to go to the woods for a picnic – and I did it for him.

All my family and I want now is for people to make some good come out of all this in whatever way they can.

My message to you all is be kind to yourself and others. No one is perfect, we all make mistakes; hold your hands up to those and forgive others. Whatever you do in your life, speak out if you see injustice; tell your bosses how to run their businesses more safely and efficiently. It's up to us the little people who do the work; we can guide and instruct the managers as to how best to improve services.

In memory of Benjamin and all those dear people you may have lost, open your hearts and minds to every possibility. Life isn't black and white, it's full of many colours, open your eyes and appreciate all that you have.

I send you the wish that you may find the joy and love Ben gave to me.

Yours respectfully,

Veronica Deri