A CHARITY ball, held in memory of an Oakdale boy who collapsed and died suddenly in 2012, will mark what would have been his 21st birthday.

Jack Thomas died from a suspected arrhythmia, although the cause has never been confirmed.

Following his unexpected death, Jack’s parents June and Grant backed a petition for Jack’s Law calling for a defibrillator to be placed in every public place in Wales. His parents, family and friends also since set up Jack’s Appeal to provide defibrillators to all schools in Wales.

Next month, Jack would have turned 21 and his family and Welsh Hearts are holding memorial events throughout that week to help keep the Oakdale youngster’s legacy alive.

Bryn Meadows Golf Hotel and Spa in Caerphilly will be holding a memorial golf day on Friday, June 2, before the Jack Thomas Memorial Ball one week later at the Maes Manor in Blackwood on Friday, June 9.

The organisers are also appealing for raffle prizes for the event and volunteers to hold other events in memory of Jack.

Jack’s mother June Thomas will soon be receiving a British Empire Medal from the Lord Lieutenant of Gwent in recognition of her campaigning.

The date which Mrs Thomas will receive the medal is yet to be confirmed, but she has labelled the honour as “a family medal”.

For more information or to book tickets visit welshhearts.org/events or contact 029 2240 2670.