THE Jamie Adamson Memorial Fund reached another milestone last weekend as the JAM Caravan was officially opened.

Based at Manorbier Country Park in Pembrokeshire, the £31,000 caravan - bought with money raised thanks to the generous efforts of many Barry folk and people further afield - will offer seriously ill children and their families a chance to have a break. It will also provide a haven for families who have lost a child through serious illness.

The fund was set up by Jamie's mum, dad and brother, Nicola, Paul and Sam, with the Barry & District News two years ago, to raise money in his memory after the five-year-old lost his battle against leukaemia in 2004.

Paul Adamson said: "We're thrilled that as such a well supported charity, we're now able to provide the caravan to families who really need it.

"Our aim has always been to support children who need help.

"We - as parents - know the value of being able to get away from the hospital and home environment for a break.

"Jamie loved his time in our caravan," added Paul.

"We're so happy we can now provide this opportunity for other families."

The first child to benefit from the new facilities is nine-year-old Courtney Williams, from Barry.

Nine-year-old Courtney, who suffers with cystic fibrosis, can't wait for the trip. The Oakfield Primary School pupil said: "I'm really excited to be going. I love animals so I'm looking forward to going to Folly Farm when we're there."

And Courtney's mother, Ceri, is also looking forward to the break.

She said: "We haven't been on holiday for the last two years, so it'll be good to get away.

"It's a great idea and we'd like to thank everyone at the JAM Fund for the opportunity."

Paul Adamson added: "I'd like to say a big thank you to all our supporters for making this happen.

"Particularly to Alec and Vanessa Hawkins, John and Nikki Jones and Bob and Janice Caton for their kind donations of kitchen appliances and electronic games for the caravan.

"The running costs of the van will be about £4,500 per year - so we'd ask people to continue to help us in any way they can."