Mason Neal: Fundraiser organised for family of 'cheeky' Scottish schoolboy, 11, who died on New Year's Day

Thousands of pounds has been raised for a family after their "cheeky" 11-year-old boy tragically died on New Year's Day.

Mason Neal, 11, from Staxigoe near Wick in Caithness, was rushed to Caithness General Hospital after becoming unwell on January 1 and sadly died later that day.

A GoFundMe fundraiser has generated over £12,750 since it was created on Sunday to support the boy’s family.

The fundraiser reads: “A small group of us in the Staxigoe community would like to raise money to support a grieving, local family.

“Mason Neal, age 11 suddenly died on New Year’s Day.

“His Mum, Lucy and big sister Phoebe are devastated and need our support to help them on this tragic journey.”

GoFundMe

A post from his mum on social media reads: "Reality hasn't sunk in yet. To say I'm devastated, heartbroken and utterly destroyed doesn't even come close to how I, how we are feeling.

“On the 1st of January 2026, we said goodbye to our boy, my Mason, as he closed his eyes for the last time.

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"It makes no sense to be sitting here writing this, but, as the messages have been flowing in and everyone who knew and loved him best have been informed of his passing, I just wanted to write a note to everyone to thank you for your support during this unthinkable time, and that I appreciate the messages and will try to reply to everyone as soon as I can, but for now we're processing our loss.

"For now hold your loved ones a little tighter and a little longer, for my loving, caring, bright, cheeky handsome little man, Mason.

“4,322 days with you will never be enough, my Mason - I want you back, we want you back! Love you more. Forever 11."

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: "Around 11.10am on Thursday, 1 January 2026, police were called to report that a young boy had taken unwell in Staxigoe, outside Wick.

"He was taken by ambulance to Caithness General Hospital where he died later in the day. His family is aware.

“There are no suspicious circumstances surrounding his death and a report will be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal."

If you would like to leave a donation, visit the GoFundMe page.