I lost my son Spencer to meningitis and meningococcal septicaemia some time ago and can well imagine the pain all those who knew Connor are suffering.

On behalf of the national charity Meningitis UK, which represents hundreds of families who have experienced the devastation caused by these diseases, I would like to pass on our heartfelt sympathies to Connor's family and friends.

Here at Meningitis UK we know only too well how devastating the disease can be and how quickly it can strike. Sadly, the disease can often be incredibly difficult to detect as the symptoms are hard to distinguish from the common cold or flu, plus there are occasions when people show no or very few symptoms.

For all these reasons, we believe prevention is the only way to truly eradicate the disease and developing a preventative vaccine to protect against all forms of meningitis and its associated diseases is our sole focus at Meningitis UK.

We also distribute a wide range of material to raise awareness of the common symptoms and need to act quickly, which can mean the difference between life and death.

If any of your readers would like a symptoms information pack, including wallet-sized symptoms cards, or to find out more about supporting our Search for a Vaccine Campaign, they can call Meningitis UK on 0117 373 7373 or visit www.meningitisUK.org.

STEVE DAYMAN

Chief executive

Meningitis UK