A LOCAL lady has created a public tribute to babies loved and lost in Earls Colne community, in support of baby loss awareness week.

Baby Loss Awareness Week takes place 9 – 15 October, led by Sands - a charity that works to save babies’ lives and support families affected by the loss of a child.

Currently in the UK, 13 families a day suffer the heartbreak of losing their baby before, during or shortly after birth, and 15% of pregnancies end in miscarriage.

Earls Colne resident and Sands supporter, Cherry McKean has created a ribbon display, presenting the names of the babies being remembered, on the railings at St Andrews Church on Park Lane.

The ribbons will be visible until next Tuesday (15 October)The ribbons will be visible until next Tuesday (15 October) (Image: Cherry McKean) The ribbons decorate the area in blue, pink and white, helping bereaved families in the Four Colnes to come together during this year’s Baby Loss Awareness week.

All proceeds made by the display will be donated to Sands charity. 

The display will be visible until the end of Baby Loss Awareness Week, on 15 October

Cherry Mckean, volunteer coordinating the display, said:

“During Baby Loss Awareness Week, I wanted to create a special display to remember all the babies lost, whether recently or long ago - I hope it starts conversations.”

There will also be a Cradle in the Heart service on the 11 October at St Andrews Church.

“Sadly, pregnancy and baby loss affect families across the UK every day and they may feel they are alone in their grief.” Cherry said.

“I hope the display raises awareness and breaks the silence surrounding pregnancy and baby loss, it is impacting so many people in our local community.

“All money raised from the display will go to Sands, so they can continue to support families and reduce baby deaths, by investing in research and championing better maternity care.”

For more information, visit Earls Colne Ribbon Display for Sands on Facebook.