A schoolboy killed in a suspected hit-and-run has been buried in a historic churchyard that was “so dear to his heart” after the King granted special permission.

William Brown, seven, was killed on the A259 Sandgate Esplanade in Folkestone, Kent, on December 6 last year.

His father, William Brown Snr, said William had been trying to collect his football when the crash happened.

The King granted permission for him to be buried under a chestnut tree in the grounds of St Mary & St Eanswythe Church after a campaign by his family and friends. The churchyard has been closed for burials since 1857.

William had written in his school yearbook in 2021: “I feel peaceful when I am sat under the chestnut tree.”

Hundreds of mourners stood outside the packed 400-seat capacity church for the service.

Two white horses transported William’s coffin to the church, draped in a Manchester United flag and accompanied by items including a club football and trophy.

His father was among others who carried the coffin inside.

William had a “unique spirit” and was hailed as a “best friend to many” by his mother, Laura Brown.

“He was a child of God and he spent nearly every day after school in that graveyard,” Mrs Brown said ahead of the service.

“He would spend his time collecting conkers, foraging for wild garlic or generally digging, something that he loved.”

Mr Brown said he was the “proudest dad” to William, who had a keen interest in the “natural and historical world”.

Addressing his son, he said: “I’m honoured to be your father, I have learned so much from you, you have moulded me into a better person, I love you and I will always carry you with me.”

He also thanked the community for their “moving and uplifting support”, with some 4,000 people signing a petition for the churchyard to be reopened for William’s burial.

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Mrs Brown drove up to the King’s official Gloucestershire residence, Sandringham, to hand deliver the petition.

Almost 1,000 people donated to a crowdfunding page to help pay for funeral costs, which has so far raised £21,000. Any remaining funds will be donated to the church to help pay for a new heating system.

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The crash, at the junction with Prospect Road, involved two vehicles and happened around 5.35pm, police said.

A 49-year-old man was arrested in Dymchurch on December 7 on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, causing death by careless driving, failing to stop at the scene of the crash and perverting the course of justice.

He was later released on bail until March 6 as officers continue their investigations.

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