IT STARTED as a family activity to make everyone laugh, now creating cupcakes is a way for a young Basingstoke couple to keep their son’s memory alive.

Francesca Flanagan, 22, and Josh Quintela, 25, launched Elih’sCupCakes earlier this month after their son Elih died from unexpected complications arising out of a twisted bowel months before his second birthday in September last year.

Born prematurely, Elih had a condition that affected his oesophagus and meant he was unable to swallow.

Despite having to undergo seven operations in his short life, including one to move his stomach into his chest, Elih never let his condition get in the way of living life to the full.

Francesca said: “He was such a happy-go-lucky child and he was just such a cheeky little boy with a massive personality.

“This is why we wanted to make the cupcakes, as it was something he enjoyed, and it brings a smiles to people’s faces.

“So, if we can keep his legacy and personality alive through this and help support people it shows his memory lives on.”

Elih was under the care of University Hospital Southampton where he spent time on the paediatric intensive care unit (PICU) and the couple recently donated dozens of cakes to a bake sale to raise money for the PICU.

Francesca added: “We put a little quote on the back of each box that says ‘in loving memory of Elih Quintela’ so everyone knows why we are doing this.

“We have been quite shocked by the response we have got from the early stages.”

Ultimately the couple would like to establish a foundation in Elih’s memory but for now they want to develop their business to start putting back into positive causes in memory of their little boy.

By creating a range of different flavours and colourful designs, the couple aim to bring happiness through their baking.

When asked if there were to be an Elih flavour, Francesca said: “It would have to be a rainbow cake as he was so bright and colourful.”

Rosie Mitchell, trustee of the Friends of PICU charity that raises money for the unit, said: “Setting up the charity was because of people like Francesca and Josh who wanted to do something positive. We are incredibly grateful to families who have had loved ones cared for at PICU.”

To find out more search for ‘Elih’sCupCakes’ on Facebook. For more about how to support Friends of PICU, go to friendsofpicu.org.uk.