TWO mums whose babies were stillborn are holding a memorial service for bereaved families.

Joanne Lane’s first child was stillborn 36-weeks into her pregnancy, more than ten years ago.

After the death of her son, Joanne, 39, of Lucerne Walk, Wickford, teamed up with close friend Karla Cairns, of Roberts Road, Laindon.

Karla, 48, had the same experience after her fifth child died while she was 24-weeks pregnant 18 years ago.

Together they set up the Forget-Me-Not support charity for bereaved families.

Now the group is hosting a memorial service to commemorate stillborn children, organised by its 45 members.

Joanne said: “After my first child died, I felt isolated and there was not much support available.

“I got a telephone call from Karla who supported me right through my bereavement.

“It felt so good to hear somebody on the other end of the line who totally understood what I was going through.

“No one knows what it’s like to lose a child until you go through it yourself.

“At that point Karla and I got together and set up the Forget-Me-Not support group and annual memorial.”

At the service, bereaved families can get together to reflect, listen to music, read poems, and visit the group’s garden at Pitsea Crematorium.

It is being held to coincide with the national baby loss awareness campaign, running from October 9 to 15.

The service is being held on Saturday, October 9, at 2pm.

People can gather at the crematorium from 1pm.

If you would like to take part in the memorial or join the support group call Joanne on 07773 213464.