Grace was truly amazing

Today we report with much sadness that inspirational Wearside girl Grace Jones has died.

Grace had been born with a mystery illness that left her disabled and unable to speak.

But she inspired a massive fund-raising campaign to set up and build Sunderland’s Grace House children’s respite centre.

In 2002, TV personality Kathy Secker was so touched when she met the High Barnes youngster while researching the need for a hospice in the region that she became determined to launch an appeal.

Parents Debra and Darren agreed to join the board of trustees and were delighted when Kathy suggested naming what was initially intended to be a children’s hospice after their daughter.

For years Grace was the figurehead of the campaign and became well-known throughout the region, regularly appearing on TV news bulletins as the Grace House appeal gathered pace.

The former Portland College and Sunningdale School pupil died at the age of 18 on Monday.

Debra and Darren said: “Our hearts are completely broken but we embrace the pain, for we are truly blessed to have had 18 wonderful years with our very own Amazing Grace.”

In 2014, it was decided that Grace House should be a respite and short-break facility, and today bosses paid tribute to Grace, calling her “a girl whose smile and indomitable spirit enthused those who were fortunate enough to meet her”.

They added: “Her legacy will live on through the work we do – she will not be forgotten.”

We wholeheartedly agree and mourn the loss of such a special youngster.