Mum: 'I will forever walk around with a piece of my heart missing'

LEO’S mum says she will “forever walk around with a piece of her heart missing”.

- 

In a statement which was read out on her behalf, she told the court that her son had been “incredible brave, strong and resilient throughout his short life”. She added: “He inspired me to stay strong and continue to live for him, so that I could make him proud and give him justice.

“I always wanted to be a mother, and I couldn’t have been any more in love with this little boy. I was in my bubble. I was so happy and in love with being a mum to a gorgeous boy. I felt like nothing could take my happiness away. This was until our lives were changed forever on the 13th of April 2018.

“I had planned to go out for a few hours with friends to get some food. I left Leo with someone I thought I could trust, someone who would protect and care for Leo. I will regret choosing to go out that night forever. I will forever wish I could turn back time, change everything and hold Leo tight.