AN APPEAL in memory of a baby who died aged seven months after weighing just 500g at birth has raised £3,000 in its first two months.

Family and friends of little Seren Olivia Witcombe, of Talywain, have been raising the funds in aid of the neonatal unit at Newport’s Royal Gwent Hospital which cared for the youngster during the final months of her short life.

Now with businesses and community groups getting involved to help add to the funds, it is hoped the appeal will be registered as an official charity to help keep the cherished memory of Seren alive for years to come.

The Argus reported in August how Seren was born three months premature on December 27, weighing just 500g.

Seren spent all her life in hospital both in Southampton where her mum Sian Evans, who suffers from cardiac problems, has consultants based, and at the Royal Gwent.

But after a brave sevenmonth battle, Ms Evans and Seren’s father Daley Witcombe had to say a heartbroken goodbye to their firstborn.

Seren died on July 29 weighing just 10lb.

Since Seren’s death, her parents, of Graigview Terrace, Talywain, as well as their friends, and sisters Joanne and Jenna Powell have held fundraising events including a sponsored walk, a teddy bear’s picnic, a coffee morning and most recently a charity night at Cwmffrwdoer football club, Pontypool.

Joanne Powell thanked local businesses who have contributed to the appeal including TM Tyres, Newport, who donated £200 as well as Scam’s Fish and Chip Shop Abersychan, The Log Cabin, Penygarn, and Talywain RFC among others.

Ms Evans said: “It is great to see the community getting involved.

The neonatal unit gave Seren the best life she could have had, so if we can help them give that to other babies it will be great.”

● After reading about the appeal in the Argus, Caldicot Male Voice Choir will hold an open rehearsal night on October 11 where visitors will be able to hear the choir perform a concert programme. Entry will be by donation on the door at 7pm and there will be refreshments, a bar, cakes and a raffle at the choir’s hall on Mill Lane.

Other events being planned by family and friends of Seren include a charity night at Talywain RFC on November 17, which will include a disco, singer and food for £5 per ticket.

A children’s Christmas party will also be held on December 16 at the Log Cabin, Penygarn. For each party attended the price is £2 for the first child and £1.50 for each child after that.

For more information on these events, or to make a donation or give a raffle prize, contact Ms Powell at JoanneSPowell@ hotmail.com or on 07870 469188.