Hays Travel agents complete walk in memory of baby Nova

A group of Hays Travel agents have completed a fundraising walk for a Cheshire hospital trust, dedicating their effort to the Runcorn branch manager’s granddaughter who was stillborn.

The agents raised more than £1,000 for the Warrington and Halton Teaching Hospitals Charity (WHH Charity), which is planning to build a dedicated space for families who have experienced baby loss.

The cause had particular significance for Runcorn branch manager Leanne Knowles, whose daughter Halle was supported at Warrington Hospital when her baby, Nova Isobel Zieba, was born two days after her heart had stopped beating.

Knowles said: “Halle was supported by the wonderful staff at Warrington Hospital, so we wanted to do something to raise money for their appeal while remembering Nova.”

The fundraising appeal aims to raise £200,000 to build The Willow Tree Hub, which will provide comfort, privacy and specialist support for families who have experienced the loss of a baby.

Three Runcorn agents walked from Walton Lea Crematorium, where Nova was cremated, to Warrington Hospital.

They were met at the hospital by Laura Barnes, one of the specialist midwives who supported Halle.

“We were thanked by Laura and had our picture taken under the willow tree, which is where the new unit is to be built,” said Knowles. “We hope to continue to support this fundraiser in the coming year.”

Sarah Nuttie, consultant midwife at the Warrington and Halton Teaching Hospitals Charity, said: “For families who have experienced baby loss, having a dedicated space for bereavement support is vital.

“The Willow Tree Hub will provide a safe and private environment away from clinical settings, allowing families to grieve and heal in their own time.”

The charity has set up a JustGiving page for the appeal.