A LIGHT may have gone out but the memory of young Harry Patterson burned brightly at an emotional red carpet event in Swansea.

Nearly 200 people came together on Saturday night to raise some £10,000 for Harry's Fund, in memory of the 5-year-old from Alltwen who died on September 13.

It is believed the family's empty car rolled down the slope of their home in Bryn Llewelyn and hit him, causing him to suffer severe head injuries.

There were lumps in the throat at the Marriott Hotel when Harry's dad Christian sang It Must Be Love, memorably covered by Madness, and Somewhere Over the Rainbow, with fellow actor Steven Meo.

"Everybody was on their feet," said Harry's aunt Mandi Gwynne.

Another poignant moment was the first bit of singing of the night, by the Sir Harry Secombe Trust Youth Theatre, who performed West End songs from Oliver and Phantom of the Opera, among others.

More singing came from Kate Leonard, best friend of Harry's mum, Michelle, with her rendition of Billie Holiday's God Bless The Child. A CD version featuring Harry's classmates at Alltwen Primary School was on sale.

Miss Gwynne, who is sales manager at the Marriott, said her older sister Michelle and Christian had drawn strength in a terrible time from the support they have received.

Memory

Referring to the tragedy, she said: "A light went out on that night. We want to keep Harry's memory alive. And Harry's Fund is doing that."

The 37-year-old said the family just had to carry on and be positive, particularly for Harry's older brother, Dylan.

The fund will raise money for a memorial. The idea at present is to create a park in Alltwen, by the community centre.

"Plans are going really well," said Miss Gwynne.

Other performers and guests on Saturday night included Michael Buble tribute act Jimmy Webb, AM Bethan Jenkins, Welsh actress Siwan Morris, The Wave's Helen Bowden, and master of ceremonies Kai Owen, from Torchwood, who belted out Hymns And Arias and Bread Of Heaven.

"It was just brilliant," said Miss Gwynne.

Auction lots included a signed Swansea City shirt, a holiday, gifts from the Marriott chain and a huge bear which was bought by local businessman and charity stalwart Eddie Whitney, who promptly put it back up for sale.

Harry's Fund patrons include actress Claire Sweeney, Warwick Davies, Jonathan Wilkes and Kai Owen.

Darts legend Phil "The Power" Taylor has also signed up, as well as Neath MP Peter Hain.

"Harry's Fund would like to thank everyone who attended on Saturday night, and who has given support over the last few weeks," said Miss Gwynne.

www.harrysfund.org.uk

richard.youle@swwmedia.co.uk