Steve Dayman of the charity Meningitis Now writes about a recent tragedy.

I was deeply saddened to hear that seven-year-old ‘ball of energy’ Mason Timmins, of Walsall, died of meningitis recently.

On behalf of Meningitis Now, which represents thousands of families affected by the devastation caused by meningitis and associated diseases, I pass on our heartfelt sympathies to Mason’s family and friends.

Meningitis and septicaemia are notoriously difficult to diagnose and can kill in hours. I lost my son Spencer to meningitis and septicaemia some time ago and can well imagine the pain that all those who knew Mason are suffering. We are fighting back against all forms of meningitis-related disease.

Because the disease strikes so quickly and can be difficult to detect, we fund preventative research to wipe out the disease as well as provide support and care to those affected by it.

If anyone would like a free symptoms information pack or further information, please call our 24-hour freephone helpline on 0808 80 10 388 or visit www.MeningitisNow.org.