Chance to remember lost children

Staff said special ribbons are being made available at Barnsley Hospital’s main reception to tie to the memorial tree to commemorate the lives of all children and babies who have died - especially those lost through miscarriage, stillbirth or neo-natal death.

The tree, situated in the memorial garden outside the Women’s and Children’s department backing on to Pogmoor Road, was planted more than 10 years ago and is used throughout the year as a focus for families in very emotional times.

Paula Paynter, one of the hospital’s counsellors, said: “Losing a baby through miscarriage, stillbirth or neo-natal death is traumatic and painful for all family members.

“Tying a ribbon on the memorial tree brings peace to a lot of families who have experienced such great sorrow.

“It is also an opportunity for all members of the family to come together and remember, and allows them to celebrate the life of their baby.”