Alfie Evans, the terminally ill boy whose fate was argued over in the courts and in the streets, should have been allowed to die at home instead of in hospital surrounded by police, his supporters said on Saturday.

The toddler, who suffered from a rare neurological disease, died at 2.30am yesterday at Alder Hey Hospital in Liverpool, five days after being taken off life support following several court rulings that further treatment would not be in his best interests.

Tom Evans, the father of the 23-month-old, announced his death on Facebook, saying:

"My gladiator lay down his shield and gained his wings at 02:30. Absolutely heartbroken. I love you my guy."

Kate James, Alfie's mother, wrote: "We are heart broken. Thank you everyone for all your support."