The family of the boy who was swept out to sea in Kirkcaldy have decided to open his funeral to the public.
Jadwiga Cieraszewski, who has made Fife her home since moving from Poland, has asked for details of the funeral to be publicised having been ”overwhelmed” by the support she received after her three-year-old son Eryk drowned at Kirkcaldy Esplanade a week past Saturday.
The town united in grief and many flowers and messages of sympathy have been left at the scene of the tragedy.
Fife Migrants Forum, which has been in close contact with Ms Cieraszewski (27), has said thank you on behalf of the family.
”The family of the late Eryk Cieraszewski have been overwhelmed by the kindness, support and sympathy shown to them by the people of Fife,” said a spokeswoman for the forum.
”They wish to make it known that the funeral mass will take place at St Marie’s Church in Kirkcaldy on Friday, November 25, at 11am and will be followed by a short service at the crematorium at 12.40pm.”
Eryk, who was with his six-year-old sister Oliwia at the time, was swept into the Firth of Forth while playing in puddles at the Esplanade. Ms Cieraszewski tried desperately to grab hold of her son before a second wave pulled him out of her reach.
The incident highlighted the dangers posed by the sea at Kirkcaldy during high tide.
At the request of Ms Cieraszewski, flowers, gifts and messages of condolence have been moved from the Esplanade to the forum’s office at Law’s Close, 341b High Street above the tourist information office for safe keeping.
The spokeswoman added: ”Anyone who wishes to leave further messages or sign the book of condolence is welcome to do so at our office.
“Fife Migrants Forum have supported the family since this tragic event occurred and will continue that support in the difficult weeks and months to come.
”We would like to express our sincere thanks to all the individuals, police and organisations who have helped us be able to support the family. We will depend on your continued assistance.
”We would also like to pay tribute to the people of Fife for their outpouring of kindness and sympathy at this difficult time and it is a reflection of why so many of us have chosen to make our home here in Fife.”