A TODDLER who survived a crash that killed his father and a family friend reached a milestone his family had feared they might not see.

Liam Hardwick suffered life-threatening head injuries when a car collided with a group of people waiting to cross the road after a conkerpicking trip near South Church Industrial Estate, in Bishop Auckland, on October 11.

His father, Bryan, 26, died in hospital the night of the accident, and close friend David Weatherburn, 40, died eight days later.

But brave Liam amazed everyone with his speedy recovery, and was surrounded by family and friends in Bishop Auckland yesterday to celebrate his second birthday.

His mother, Kayleigh Sanderson, who was engaged to Mr Hardwick, said: “To be honest, I did not think we would see this day, and it feels brilliant.

“He chose his own birthday card, and decided he wanted a hoover as his present, even though he used to be scared of them.”

Although he still has a scar on the back of head, and a small scar on his back, Liam has made a full recovery from his injuries.

Miss Sanderson, also mother to Brogan, three, said: “He’s had no follow-ups and there’s been no lasting damage. We’re hoping his hair will grow over the scar soon.

“He was fairly quiet before the accident, but his speech has really come on since then.

He’s got a good teacher in his sister.”

Despite the family’s visible relief and joy over Liam’s recovery, the celebrations were tinged with sadness because of Mr Hardwick’s absence.

Liam’s grandmother, Gillian Sanderson, said: “It’s great to see Liam like this, but I wish it was under different circumstances. I know Bryan would have made a big deal out of the day.”

The family have been staying at her house in Proudfoot Drive since the accident, but will return to their home in Walker Drive at Christmas.

Miss Sanderson said: “I was a bit worried about it at first, but now I’m ready to go back home.

“I’ve been buying Christmas presents, and I’m trying to stay strong for the kids.”

■ Anthony Whittaker, of Cheesmond Avenue, Bishop Auckland, has been charged with two counts of causing death by dangerous driving, theft and driving while disqualified, and has been remanded in custody.