New mums’ event in aid of stillbirth charity

A GROUP of new mothers have teamed up to organise a fundraising event in aid of the Stillbirth and neonatal death society (Sands).

After reading about the work that Marie Manson is doing for the charity in Shetland, the group of first-time mothers felt compelled to help, having all had positive experiences with the NHS’s local maternity services.

Chloe Tallack, who had her first child last summer, said: “Still birth is almost a taboo subject which needs to be spoken about more. Ideally we would like to raise awareness of the charity here in Shetland.”

The group decided to hold a craft fair and tabletop “car boot” sale, with games for children and a raffle, as well as fair trade teas, sandwiches and fancies.

Jennifer Munro said she was “thrilled” with the response to the event, which takes place next Sunday (29 March) in the Whiteness and Weisdale Hall.

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“All of the table spaces are now taken, with a broad mix of local craft makers offering their products for sale, including handmade candles, knitwear and other Shetland crafts,” she said. “We also have indoor sale tables to browse, so there will be something for everyone on the day.”

Munro added: “We would like to say a huge thank you to everyone, individuals and local businesses, who has donated to the raffle so far, and there’s always space to receive more on the day.”

Manson and other volunteers from the Sands group will also be at the hall and available to talk about the work they are doing. She is “delighted to be attending the hall on Sunday”.

“The money raised will help our new group get up and running, allowing us to think about the services we can provide for anyone who has experienced the loss of a child,” she said, adding: “I would like to take this opportunity to thank the lasses on behalf of our group for organising this event.”

• Anyone who is unable to attend the event, whiceh starts at 1.30pm next Sunday. can still donate on the Shetland Sands just giving page.