Bereaved families gathered for a poignant afternoon of reflection.
The memory day, one of three organised throughout the year by East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH), took place at The Nook.
Parents, grandparents, siblings and other family members had the chance to come together and light candles to remember their loved ones.
Geoff Sharkey, of Musical Keys, provided an acoustic guitar set to welcome everyone into the marquee.
They then heard from EACH Volunteer Chaplain Rachel Foster, while youngsters heard a special reading of The Hare-Shaped Hole – a story that gently explores the themes of grief and loss, written by John Dougherty.
Michelle Attrill, EACH’s Head of Wellbeing and Spiritual Care, said the day was well attended by 130 people.
She added: “Thankfully, it remained dry and warm, and feedback has been really positive.
“Rachel led the afternoon with great warmth and sensitivity, and our memory days are very special events for us and our families.
“They represent an important opportunity for families to come together, share their experiences with others who understand and, of course, remember their children.
“It’s always a very poignant occasion and a reminder that they’re not alone, with hope for the future.”
Families enjoyed refreshments and were reunited with members of the care team, who were well supported by valued volunteers.
Photos of the babies, children and young people were displayed, and one parent said afterwards: “It’s a club no-one wants to be part of, but such a warm and loving experience with other people who totally understand your pain.”
Another described it as a “time and space to reflect and honour our daughter’s life,” while one said the day “brings our family so much comfort”.
The candle-lighting was accompanied by a piano compilation, while the closing music was Somewhere Out There, by Linda Ronstadt and James Ingram.
The memory day took place on Saturday, 7th September and Michelle added she was grateful to Paul Dennett, from IT support company Xperience, for his help with audio-visual technology on the day.
