"A perfect little boy":Hundreds turn out for funeral of Jaiden Mangan who died in Wareham

The three-year-old, known by his family as JJ, died the day before his fourth birthday after being involved in a collision with a Sainsbury’s lorry at the pedestrian crossing on Wareham’s North Street.

During an emotional service at Wareham’s Priory Church of Lady St Mary, the Reverend Jane Williams read out a moving tribute from Jaiden’s father James.

James had written: “My gorgeous little boy. I remember the day he was born like it was yesterday, and it was one of the happiest days of my life.

“As Jaiden got a little older and started getting his own little personality, I knew he was going to be such an easy, happy, perfect little boy - and that he was. He was just so amazing, like his big sister Miyah.

"I was so proud of him and he was so proud of himself too. He then started to turn into a young little man. He was so cheeky and so naughty at times, but he wasn’t rude or horrible.

"He was just JJ, and everyone loved him for who he was. Jaiden and Miyah together were best friends and inseparable.

“I could go on forever and ever telling you all how amazing and funny and loving Jaiden was. But just for today I’m going to stop here and play JJ a song from me to him.

“Daddy loves you Jaiden John Mangan forever, always sleep well son.”

Earlier, her voice cracking with emotion, Jaiden’s mum, Yasmin, read a poem in tribute to her son.

This followed numerous family messages and tributes that were read to those gathered. And Jaiden’s older sister, Miyah, lit a candle during the service in his memory.

A number of sports cars formed part of the funeral procession, which made its way through the town centre and was supported by hundreds of residents who lined the streets.

A replica of the character Lightning McQueen, from the animated Pixar film Cars, which was one of Jaiden’s favourites, led the procession.

Rev Williams said: “The death of a child in any circumstances is an occasion of great sadness, but a death as the result of such a terrible accident, simply defies our understanding.”

Probe continues into fatal crash 

THE fatal accident which has rocked Wareham to the core took place in the heart of the town centre.

Young Jaiden John Mangan died after being involved in a collision with a Sainsbury’s lorry at a pedestrian crossing in North Street, shortly before 8.45am on March 29.

Dorset Police are leading the investigation into the tragedy.

Meanwhile, an inquest into the death of the car loving youngster was opened last week. It was adjourned pending a full hearing.

The driver of the lorry involved in the collision, a 43-year old man from Basingstoke, was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving. He has been released under investigation while enquires continue. 

To donate to Focus Nursery, Jaiden’s nursery, and Gully’s Place visit funeraldirector.co.uk/jj-mangan