Surprise 16th birthday messages flood in for Newark boy in coronavirus lockdown

A birthday boy has been sent dozens of special messages after an online appeal.

Julie Mumby, of Newark, banned her son Callum from Facebook while she gathered wishes for his 16th birthday, which will be spent in lockdown.

With messages from people as far away as Australia, Julie wanted Callum to be the centre of attention having always taken a back seat to younger brother Sam, who has autism, and Julie’s recent fibromyalgia diagnosis.

“Happy birthday to an amazing young man,” one wrote. “You are following in your dad’s footsteps and I’m sure everyone is proud of you for this, as well as every other hurdle you’ve come across.”

Callum was also sent a much-needed video from his grandparents who he has not seen during lockdown.

Another wrote: “Callum, we hope you have a very happy 16th birthday. I know your family are so proud of you. You help your mum and brother so much, and always put them before yourself.

“Hope you have lots of cards and presents, you so very much deserve.”

Callum was even wished a ‘pawesome’ birthday by guide dogs Zola and Koko.