Parents' Tribute To Oldham Blast Victim

29 June 2012, 18:32 | Updated: 30 March 2016, 13:50

The mum and dad of a toddler killed in the Oldham blast say: “Jamie was unique and amazing. We will miss everything about him.”

Michelle and Ken Heaton released their statement after visiting the scene to see the messages and flowers left by well-wishers.

They also thanked the local community for the “tremendous support” in the wake of the tragedy.

Jamie was killed and neighbour Andrew Partington, 27, suffered serious burns as Tuesday's blast flattened their homes and damaged scores of other houses.

Jamie was killed while watching TV in his home but his mother miraculously survived after stepping out to hang out washing in the yard.

Michelle and Kenny Heaton hugged each other next to a makeshift shrine of flowers from well-wishers as a statement was read on their behalf. “Our little man Jamie was a happy little boy, mischievous and full of laughter. He loved watching Mr Tumble and Peppa Pig, he was in his element in the outdoors, he loved his freedom, going to the park, playing on the slide.

“He adored his family, his brother and sister, Jack and Jodie, they loved their cuddles and play fighting. His personality was unique and amazing. Jamie was unique and amazing, we will miss everything about him even though we only had a short time with Jamie, the time we had was special and his memory will live on through Jack and Jodie and everyone close to him.”

Detective Chief Inspector Pete Marsh, from Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said police were treating the investigation as a “search for the truth” and were keeping a ``completely open mind''.

Mr Partington remains unconscious and sedated at Wythenshawe Hospital, where he is being treated for serious burns.

A 32-year-old maintenance man who is understood to have checked the boiler at Mr Partington's rented home has been bailed by police following his arrest for manslaughter.