Family's heartbreak as little Alfie dies

The 23-month-old from Merseyside, who had a degenerative brain condition, died at 02:30am his family has confirmed.

His father Tom Evans wrote on Facebook:“My gladiator lay down his shield and gained his wings... absolutely heartbroken.”

Alfie had his life support withdrawn on Monday after being in a semi-vegetative state for more than a year.

The family lost legal challenges against a High Court ruling allowing the hospital to withdraw ventilation.

The legal campaign, launched by Mr Evans and Alfie’s mother Kate James, attracted widespread media attention and saw them clash with doctors over the child’s treatment.