Work starts on Sebastian Gates' holiday dream home
Work has started on a holiday home for sick children which was the dream of a nine-year-old boy who died from a rare form of cancer.
The idea came from Sebastian Gates, of Ascot, Berkshire, who died in 2003.
After delays, construction has begun on the complex in North Waltham, near Basingstoke, which is due to open in 2011.
Sebastian's mother Jane said it felt "fantastic" that the project was finally taking shape.
The family, which launched charity Sebastian's Action Trust, raised money for the £850,000 complex of self-catering apartments.
It will include an indoor swimming pool, games room, library and sensory room.
Sebastian's last wish was for a holiday home which would be open all year round.
He died on Christmas Eve 2003 after a two year fight with Wilms' Tumour - a rare type of cancer which affects the kidneys.
Sebastian believed the holiday home should be available all year and should offer breaks free of charge to families with sick youngsters.
His mother said: "We've worked ever since to make sure that wish becomes a reality.
"It's about giving families precious time together, giving them some breathing space and the chance to regroup."