A HEARTBROKEN family from Newquay has launched a new charity after losing their son to a rare neurological condition.

James and Alex France have started Dragonflies – The Oli France Foundation, inspired by the life of their son, Oli, who died aged three after living with Pontocerebellar Hypoplasia (PCH).

To mark the launch, James will be joined by his three sisters, Sarah, Clare and Emma, together with grandparent Jules and lifelong friend Josh, to walk 63 miles along the South West Coast Path from St Ives to Trevone Bay in two days.

The challenge aims to raise £20,000 to establish Dragonflies and begin supporting families caring for children with life-limiting conditions.

More than £12,500 has already been raised following the support from family, friends and the community.

Oli required round-the-clock care throughout his life. His family remember him not for his condition, but for his “courage, his gentle spirit and the happiness he brought to everyone around him” despite the many challenges he faced.

James said: "We felt we had to do something positive in Oli's name. He taught us so much about love, resilience and what really matters. It would have felt like a disservice to his life if we hadn't tried to help other families.

"Oli taught us more in three years than many people learn in a lifetime. He was the gentlest, bravest little boy I've ever known.

“He faced every challenge with a courage that inspired everyone around him. We wouldn't change who Oli was, he was exactly who he was meant to be.

“Dragonflies is our way of making sure his love, his courage and everything he taught us continues to make a difference for other families."

Alex added: "Oli filled our lives with love. He showed us that even in the hardest moments there can still be happiness, laughter and beautiful memories. We hope Dragonflies helps other families make those memories too, because we know just how precious they become."

Dragonflies is launching this summer with three aims, which include making memories, building connections and raising awareness.

An application for charitable status has been submitted to the Charity Commission and is being considered.

A spokesperson for Dragonflies said: “Oli was a gentle little boy whose courage, kindness and unconditional love transformed the lives of everyone who knew him.

“He loved being outdoors, especially on Cornwall's beaches where he was at his most relaxed and happiest. He loved nature, music, playing his sensory keyboard and, above all, he loved being close to the people he loved. Those who knew him often said the same thing. Oli simply emanated love.

“His family often describe him as the bravest little boy they have ever known.

“The name Dragonflies carries a deeply personal meaning. Alongside the hope, transformation and love the dragonfly represents, brain MRI scans of children with PCH often resemble the shape of a dragonfly.

“For James and Alex, the name beautifully brings together Oli's diagnosis with the hope and lasting legacy they want Dragonflies to represent.”