A REMEMBRANCE display is returning to Clacton to mark Sands' Baby Loss Awareness Week.
The display, which honours babies and children lost during pregnancy or shortly after birth, will be installed along the railings of Memorial Gardens in Clacton on Saturday, October 11.
Families and businesses will put up ribbons in blue, white and pink, alongside knitted teddies and hearts - with each tribute representing a child taken from their family too soon.
Ribbon and knitted items added to the 2024 Sands display in Clacton(Image: KAT Marketing)
The campaign, which is returning for its seventh year, aims to raise funds and awareness for pregnancy and baby loss charity Sands.
Maria Gormley, a Sands volunteer and organiser of 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.
"Sadly, pregnancy and baby loss affects families across the UK every day and they may feel they are alone in their grief.
"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."
Members of the public are invited to add a personal tribute to the display, whether a ribbon, message, or knitted item.
Maria will also join other supporters and fundraisers on the Sands Ribbon Walk, which sets off from the Memorial Garden at 9.45am on the day.
Supporters are welcome to join for the leisurely 5k walk along the seafront, to remember babies missed by their families.
Details of this year's fundraising can be found at justgiving.com/page/ribbon-display2025, along with a link to purchase raffle tickets for a draw taking place on October 17.
All money raised will go towards Sands' work to save babies' lives and support bereaved families.
Clea Harmer, chief executive of Sands and chair of the Baby Loss Awareness Alliance, said: "Following their loss, families find themselves on a new path they never expected to be on.
"Together, we care for ourselves and each other as part of a community of people affected by all forms of pregnancy and baby loss.
"Grief affects every person differently and can change over time, even during Baby Loss Awareness Week itself.
"It can be extremely hard for any bereaved person to speak out on the issues that matter to them, if they do not have the time and tools to care for themselves first.
"Self-care is essential, so you can sustain yourself and be able to raise awareness in a way that's right for you.
"I hope that Clacton-on-Sea's Ribbon Display will help reassure anyone who finds themselves navigating this journey, whether recently bereaved or longer ago, that there is a community that understands and is here for you, whatever you need - be it guidance, shared stories or simply a listening ear to help and offer comfort.