A playground was opened today in tribute to a ten-year-old boy who drowned off Brighton beach two years ago.

Family and friends of Timmy Barry, who was autistic, raised more than £15,000 for the memorial garden at Hillside School in Portslade.

The playground was unveiled by his parents Andy and Emma and his sister Amanda, of Linthouse Close, Peacehaven, on what would have been Timmy's 13th birthday.

Mr Barry said: "We just think it is such a fitting tribute to such a lovely boy. He was always happy and he loved school and he loved being here."

Timmy drowned while on a day trip with his outreach worker Janette Moss near Brighton Marina on November 26 2000. Mrs Moss, 45, also died as she tried to save Timmy.

Headteacher Bob Wall said: "We are all aware of the tragedy of Timmy's death but the creation of this garden is a tribute to him, to the love and affection he showed us all.

"He was happy running here outside, dangling a twig and laughing. He enjoyed having his back tickled. He was a very loving little boy."

A crowd of more than 50 people, including school staff, pupils, friends and relatives, gathered for the opening.

The Snowman theme was played, along with the song Sweet Like Chocolate, one of Timmy's favourites.