PARENTS who set up a charity after their baby son died are holding their first fundraiser and have secured the support of a celebrity guest.

Joanne Harris-Beck and her husband, Tom, had baby Oakley in November.

Their tiny son became poorly after inhaling meconium in the womb.

Halstead Gazette:

Within hours of his birth, it was clear he was not going to make it and he tragically died in his mum’s arms.

Shortly after his death Joanne, 22, from Clacton, and husband, Tom, decided some good must come from their loss and they set up a charity called Oakley’s Gift.

It will raise funds for Colchester bereavement services.

Their first fundraiser will be a Glow Party on April 20 at The Royal hotel in Clacton.

A special celebrity guest will be there and a number of other famous faces have also shown their support for the charity.

Halstead Gazette:

Joanne said: “There’s going to be a neon face painter, photographers, glow sticks, DJs and special guest George Gilbey from Celebrity Big Brother.

“Tickets are on sale for £5.

“We’re going to have some merchandise on sale so we can really get the word out about Oakley’s Gift. “

She added: “X Factor’s Stevi Ritchie has kindly made a video showing his support as he’s local and loves our idea.”

Other events planned include a coffee morning and a charity darts tournament with some professional players.

Joanne said: “I think it’s going really well and think Oakley would be proud that, because of him, other families are going to benefit despite going through the unimaginable.

“Although it’s hard living without him, I’m proud Oakley’s Gift will bring comfort to others.

“We’re overwhelmed by the support we’ve received so far and this is just the beginning. Although Oakley isn’t here with us, he certainly is known.”

If any businesses would like to sponsor or support the charity they can email oakleysgift@outlook.com.

To buy tickets for events contact Oakley’s Gift on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.

Halstead Gazette: