Family pays tribute to 'happy little boy' Shaun Vane O'Neill

THE family of a toddler who was found dead at the weekend has paid tribute to a 'happy little boy'.

The body of two-year-old Shaun O'Neill, also known as Shaun Vane, was found at his home in Champernowne, Modbury, on Saturday.

His mother, Angela Vane, has been charged with his murder.

Ms Vane had separated from her son's father before Shaun's death and both sides of Shaun's family refer to him with a different surname.

Lee and Lucy Vane, Shaun's brother and sister, paid tribute to their younger sibling.

They said: "Shaun Ryleigh Vane will forever be deeply in our hearts and souls.

"Such a fantastic little brother, so bright he is our little sunshine.

"Rest in peace little brother we love you. Your loving siblings Lee and Lucy Vane."

Shaun's father, Ryan O'Neill, also paid tribute to his son:

In a statement he said: "We are deeply saddened and shocked by the recent tragic events and grieving the loss of a lovely little boy.

"A light has gone from our lives. Shaun was much loved by all his family.

"A happy little boy will be forever in our hearts and thoughts."

A police cordon remains at the home in Modbury and floral tributes and teddy bears have also been left outside.

One read: "To a dear little angel who was loved by everyone in Modbury, God bless you. May you walk with the angels forever."

Another read: "RIP Shaun, You sweet little angel. And Lee and Lucy we are thinking of you so much at this extremely sad time. God bless."

And another tribute amongst flowers read: "To Shaun, Fly High Little Angel. Rest in Peace. Gone but never forgotten."

Shaun's body was taken to Derriford Hospital and a post-mortem examination was carried out over the weekend.

Investigators are now appealing for anyone who may have seen a woman in the area in the hours leading up to the grim discovery.

The woman was seen walking between Modbury and Wrangaton between 2am and 8.15am on Saturday, investigators said.

She is described as having fair, shoulder-length hair and wearing a black jacket, black jeans and green Wellington boots.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the police on 101, quoting log number 0218 of January 19.

Angela Vane's case was listed for a bail application at Plymouth Crown Court yesterday. The application was withdrawn and she was not produced in court.

Judge Graham Cottle remanded her in custody to appear at the court for a preliminary hearing on February 5.