A CHURCH in Test Valley has had a makeover in aid of a charity awareness week.

Romsey Methodist Church has been marking the 17th Baby Loss Awareness Week through a public ribbon display.

People were invited to tie a ribbon to the church railings to remember all babies who have died too soon.

Meghan Elkin, a member of the church who organised the display, said: “We hope that the ribbons gave local bereaved parents and families an opportunity to remember their precious babies while also raising awareness of miscarriage and baby loss.”

Baby Loss Awareness Week runs from October 9 to October 15 every year and is an opportunity for those affected by pregnancy and baby loss to unite with others across the world to commemorate their babies’ lives and lost pregnancies.

Councillor Nik Daas, who represents Romsey Abbey on the borough council, said: "With thanks to all at the Methodist church for highlights such an important and intimate issue that impacts many people.

"The loss of a child must one of the most difficult situations parents can find themselves in and I am pleased to see the church raising awareness for the need support in this area."

The lead charities working with Baby Loss Awareness Week are Sands (Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Charity), Bliss and The Lullaby Trust.

Clea Harmer, Chief Executive of Sands, said: “Baby Loss Awareness Week is a unique opportunity for parents to commemorate their babies who died.

"Pregnancy loss or the death of a baby is a tragedy that affects thousands of people every year.

"It is devastating for parents and families and it’s vital they get the bereavement support and care they need, for as long as they need it.”

This is the second time in a month Romsey have celebrated an awareness week with a public display for residents.

Last month, to mark Global Mitochondrial Disease Awareness Week, Romsey Abbey lit its clock tower green in memory of the two Romsey children who passed away from a fatal disease.

Ellie Mae Muir and Alesha Vincent both passed away before reaching the age of one from mitochondrial disease.

Mitochondrial disease is a genetic condition that can affect any organ or system within the body.