A SOUTHEND MP has visited a 12-year-old boy in hospital who is at the centre of a life-support treatment dispute.

Anna Firth, MP for Southend West, visited Archie Battersbee at the Royal London Hospital in Whitechapel on Tuesday.

Ms Firth was met by Archie’s mother and visited him in his hospital room.

High Court judge Mrs Justice Arbuthnot, who is overseeing Archie’s case at private hearings in the Family Division of the High Court in London, has also agreed to visit the 12-year-old ahead of a final hearing on June 6 and 7.

Doctors treating Archie at the Royal London Hospital think it “highly likely” he is dead and say life-support treatment should end.

Read more >>> Specialist tells judge Archie has suffered 'irretrievable' brain damage

Archie’s parents, Hollie Dance and Paul Battersbee, from Southend, disagree.

Ms Firth made the visit to show support for Archie and his family during this extremely difficult time and to raise awareness for the ongoing fundraiser to support his family.

Ms Firth also presented Archie with his own personalised Platinum Jubilee certificate ahead of the Jubilee weekend as has been given to other children in Southend West and also met Archie’s sister, Lauren.

Commenting, Hollie said: “What a lovely visit from Southend’s MP Anna Firth. Genuinely interested in Archie’s condition and day-to-day care.

“She even had a little chat to him along with her chaperone Richard, again very lovely young man.

“Anna brought Archie a Jubilee certificate and flag so he doesn’t miss out on the celebrations. Richard already knew all about Barry.”

Following the visit, Ms Firth said: “Countless people have been inspired by Archie’s bravery, perseverance and courage following the tragic incident.

“Seeing him in person and speaking to his mother, nobody could help but feel immense sympathy for the whole family at this time.

“He is a beautiful and deeply impressive young man and it’s no surprise that he has captured the hearts of so many.

“The fortitude that Hollie has shown, never giving up on her son, is beyond inspiring – to some extent words simply cannot express it.

“My thoughts and prayers are with Hollie, Archie and the entire family at this time.”

Ms Firth has also made a donation to Archie’s fundraiser.

The fundraiser 'Just For Archie' has almost reached £20,000. To donate, visit bit.ly/3MerIV5.