Find local news in Kent

Home   Ashford   News   Article

Tributes to Oliver Steeper who died after incident at Jelly Beans Day Nursery in Ashford

16:38, 05 October 2021

updated: 17:07, 05 October 2021

Parents of a baby who died following a medical emergency at nursery have described him as "our baby boy, our world".

Oliver Steeper, who was just nine months old, died on Wednesday last week – six days after the incident at Jelly Beans Day Nursery in Ashford.

Oliver Steeper was just nine months old
Oliver Steeper was just nine months old

His father Lewis Steeper wrote on Facebook: "Our baby boy, our world, sadly lost his battle and passed away peacefully in our arms.

"We have been so blessed with him in our little family for the nine months he was here, bringing us joy and happiness every second of the day."

A crowdfunding page set up to help Mr Steeper and his wife Zoe has so far raised more than £8,500 for the couple.

Nicola Huggett, who started the JustGiving page, writes: "Oliver was such a joy to everyone that knew him, with a cheeky little smile that you couldn't help but love.

"He will forever be remembered by his loving family.

Tributes outside Jelly Beans nursery

"This fundraiser is for Zoe and Lewis, to bring them a little bit more time without added financial worries."

As a result of the tragedy, the nursery has been shut after education watchdog Ofsted suspended its registration.

It is understood Oliver choked while at the daycare facility on Thursday, September 23.

Floral tributes and soft toys have been left outside the nursery in Field View, Kingsnorth, in his memory.

A card left by his parents reads: "To our baby boy, you were taken too soon. We'll always be with you and you with us.

One of the messages left outside the nursery
One of the messages left outside the nursery

"We will never forget you, we will love you forever. Mummy and Daddy xxx."

Another message reads: "Sweet angel, rest peacefully. You and your family are in our hearts and prayers."

An Ofsted spokesman said: "We have suspended the nursery's registration due to serious safeguarding concerns. It will remain closed while investigations continue."

To donate to the fundraising page, click here

Read more: All the latest news from Ashford

This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies - Learn More