Bridgnorth girl's party a tribute to baby brother
It's not usual for a six-year-old to decide to go without presents on her birthday. But that's what Fern McGill did to raise almost £500 in memory of her late brother.
She asked for donations for two charities instead of getting anything herself to remember her brother, Myles.
Myles was born with a rare heart condition on December 7, 2007, which meant only half of his small heart was working.
He had open heart surgery at just six days old to extend his life – because Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome cannot be cured – but sadly died at the tender age of 17 weeks.
Fern's selfless act eventually raised £294 for Birmingham Children's Hospital and £200 for the Little Hearts Matter charity.
Her mother-of-five Sally, who is married to Craige, said: "Fern and everyone who came to her party had an amazing time. There was a bouncy castle, face painting, glitter tattoos, balloon modelling, a beautiful sweet cart and a raffle for everyone.
"We all had a wonderful day and we can't thank people enough.
"Little Hearts Matter has received a cheque and the other money will be spent on the Heart Ward 11 and High Dependancy Unit at Birmingham Children's Hospital. Both were truly thankful for everyone's kind donations, including the gifts for the playroom."
The community rallied round to support Fern for her party on September 20 – two days before her birthday.
Bridgnorth Bouncy Castles gave free use of their equipment and Bridgnorth Face Painting donated their time free of charge. Bridgnorth Laundry Services donated a raffle prize up to £40 and Hair Force, a Monster High cake.
Liz Fisher and committee members of St James Hall Church in Low Town gave the hall free of charge and made a donation for the hospital. Graze donated a meal a for two up to the value of £20 for the raffle, Fish in Bridgnorth a £10 voucher and Beth Corfeild gave away Aloe Vera products. Sally Ann Fallow and Ann Molland donated fairy cakes.
Sally, who is mother to Laura, Lauren and Hannah Cook, and Fern and two-year-old Jacob McGill, said: "We are so grateful for those who helped to make this day for a special little girl we are all so proud of for putting others first."
