A bus will head a convoy through Newark to a Service Of Celebration for six-year-old Liam Andrew

An iconic red London double-decker bus will be used to head a convoy through Newark to a Service Of Celebration for six-year-old Liam Andrew a week today.

Liam of Beacon Heights, Newark, died peacefully in his sleep last week with his parents Stuart and Amanda by his side.

He had been diagnosed with a rare and inoperable form of brain cancer, known as Diffuse Instrinsic Pontine Giloma (DIPG), six months ago.

Stuart and Amanda said they wanted something very special, rather than a hearse, for Liam and came up with the idea of the bus as London was one of the things he loved.

It will carry his coffin, which will be decorated with a montage of his favourite things, along with close members of his family and friends to the service in The Dome at Kelham Hall and Country Park.

The bus, owned by funeral directors A. W. Lymn, is due to leave Liam's home at 12.30.

A convoy, which will include super cars ­— another of Liam's passions ­— is due to pass Coddington Primary School, where he was a pupil, and then head into Newark and onto Kelham.

People are being invited to join the convoy or to drive straight to Kelham Hall.

The service, which will be conducted by a civil celebrant, is due to start at 1.30. It will feature Liam's favourite music, poems and reminiscences about his life.

Liam touched the hearts of many people in the Newark community, who helped with an appeal to raise money for possible treatments and memorable experiences for him.

His family want anybody involved in his journey and who wanted to help to come along to the service.

"It is open to anyone who helped in any way, no matter how big or small," said Amanda.

Representatives from Nottingham Forest FC, who helped ensure some special memories for Liam, are among those expected to attend.

The family are asking people to wear something yellow, as Liam was a big fan of the Minions characters in the Despicable Me films.

Stuart said they wanted it to be a happy occasion.

"We want people to come along and celebrate, " he said.

Inquiries about the funeral can be made to Ollerton branch of A. W. Lymn on 01623 860045.