With just two months to go until hundreds of runners take to the streets of Solihull, Acorns Children’s Hospice has been named as the official charity partner for the market town’s biggest annual run– turning this much-loved event into an unforgettable day of fundraising.

Whether you’re chasing a new personal best or jogging with friends, #TeamAcorns is calling on runners of all abilities to lace up their trainers and hit the ground running at this year’s Run Solihull 2025 to help raise vital funds for local children with life limiting and life threatening conditions.

Taking place on Sunday 10 August, this high-energy event – organised by RunThrough – features a half marathon, 5k and a children’s race, making it the perfect way for the whole family to get involved and give back.

Man wearing #TeamAcorns vest running

Sophie Boreham, Events Manager at Acorns, said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to be the official charity partner once again for Run Solihull. But this is more than just a run – it’s an exciting opportunity for the people of Solihull to come together and make a real difference.

“Every mile run for #TeamAcorns helps us continue our vital work supporting local children and their families. Your support means we can be there for them when they need us most.

“We can’t wait to see the sea of colourful Acorns vests out in full force on the day. Let’s make this year the biggest and most impactful yet!”

#TeamAcorns female runner does peace signs as she runs at Run Solihull

By joining #TeamAcorns, runners will receive a bespoke package of support from the charity, including a limited edition Acorns running vest, tailored training and fundraising ideas, a unique themed medal and free official race photos to remember the day.

Matt Wood, Co-Founder of RunThrough, said: “It’s an honour to welcome Acorns Children’s Hospice back as the official charity partner for Run Solihull 2025. Their passion for supporting families through incredibly tough times truly resonates with our team and our running community.

“Sophie and the Acorns team are absolutely right. This is more than just a run. It’s a chance for people across Solihull to come together, challenge themselves, and raise vital funds for a cause that makes an incredible difference every single day. We can’t wait to see a wave of #TeamAcorns runners fill the streets this August.”

Starting and finishing in Malvern Park, in Solihull Town Centre, the event is a unique opportunity to run the closed roads of Solihull. Adding to the fun, there will also be a fun-filled event village open on the day, where participants can expect live performances, bag storage, charity stalls, food and drink vendors and plenty of toilets to use before you head off onto the course.

Runners for #TeamAcorns are being asked to raise a minimum sponsorship amount which goes directly to supporting Acorns care for local children and their families.

Sophie added: “What are you waiting for? Sign up today for free to be part of something truly special whilst helping to support seriously ill children and their families. We can’t wait to cheer you on!”

Acorns Children’s Hospice provides specialist palliative care for babies, children and young people with life limiting and life threatening conditions, and support for their families.

#TeamAcorns runner throws hands in the air at Run Solihull

In the past year, the charity has cared for more than 780 children across the West Midlands, and supported over 1,000 families, including those who are bereaved. Children visit Acorns for rehabilitative respite, symptom management, emergency and end-of-life care.

This care and support is provided from Acorns three hospices, based in Birmingham, Walsall and Worcester, and in the community.

Acorns needs around £35,000 each day to provide its children’s hospice care, with as much as 72% of that amount coming from generous donations and fundraising by the local community.

Join #TeamAcorns at Run Solihull

This summer, Walsall Arboretum will once again come alive with colour, laughter and bubbles, as hundreds of people gather for Bubble Rush 2025 – the much-loved annual family fun run from Acorns Children’s Hospice. It’s a highlight in the local calendar, where family and friends can enjoy a vibrant day out while raising vital funds for seriously ill children.

But for one family in particular, this year’s Bubble Rush is so much more than a fun day out. For Georgia Pearson and her family, it’s set to be a day they’ll never forget as they will be running the course with a very special team mate – their 8-month-old son, Harrison. It’s a chance for the family to celebrate being together after an incredibly tough start to Harrison’s life.

Harrison’s story

In 2024, Georgia and her partner, Mat, were overjoyed to learn they was expecting twin boys. But their joy turned to heartbreak when complications arose, and devastatingly, their son Oscar died in the womb. The trauma triggered Georgia’s premature labour, and Harrison was born at just 26 weeks – more than three months early.

The family then faced 129 agonising days in neonatal intensive care, battling through what Georgia describes as the most difficult period of their lives.

“There were serious issues from the start, especially with Harrison’s lungs,” Georgia shared. “At one point, things were so bad that we had a Do Not Resuscitate order (DNR) in place. It’s something no parent ever imagines having to do.”

It was during this time that Harrison was diagnosed with Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia – a life limiting chronic lung condition requiring 100 per cent oxygen support around the clock. At just three months old, the family were given the devastating news that it was likely Harrison wouldn’t survive.

Baby Harrison with oxygen tube.
Baby Harrison in NICU

Life with Acorns

This is when the family were introduced to Acorns for end-of-life care, stepping in at a time when the family needed them most.

At first, Georgia was hesitant. “I didn’t want to go. I associated hospices with death and couldn’t imagine my baby belonging there.”

But a visit to Acorns in the Black Country changed everything.

“It was completely different from what I expected – friendly, warm, full of life and light.”

Thankfully tiny Harrison’s condition stabilised. But Acorns remains an important part of the family’s life, just as they were whilst Harrison was in hospital, offering practical help and emotional lifelines during their darkest days.

“The staff were amazing,” Georgia said. “They cuddled Harrison, painted with him and helped us create beautiful memories with clay hand and footprints. They were always there.”

“We would not have got through that time without Acorns. They were a godsend really.”

Now, with Harrison finally home, Acorns nurses who Georgia describes as ‘absolute angels’, visits twice a month, providing crucial support, specialist care, playtime, and giving Georgia the breathing space she needs.

“It’s just nice having someone to talk to, someone who gets it and has seen it with several families – that’s quite rare. With Acorns, I don’t have to be a ‘medical mum’ – I can just be mum. They care about me just as much as they care about Harrison and that’s so rare.”

The perfect way to give back

So, when Georgia first heard about Bubble Rush, she knew it was the perfect way to give back.

“I wanted to raise money for Acorns. People were suggesting things like a skydive, but I wanted something that Harrison could also take part in. I knew Bubble Rush would be ideal.”

“I’ll be running with him in the carrier. He loves the sensory pool and mats at Acorns, so I know he’ll absolutely love the colourful foam bubbles!”

Already, Georgia is smashing her fundraising target, raising an incredible £1,760 to support other families like hers.

“Harrison’s future is still uncertain. But what Acorns has given us – the memories and the support – it’s hard to put into words what that’s meant to us. We want other families to receive that same love and care.”

“I know somewhere down the line another family will be in our position. The money we raise might pay for them to stay the night at Acorns, just like someone else’s fundraising helped us. That’s really special.”

Every penny raised at Bubble Rush, which is sponsored by leading West Midlands law firm Talbots Law, will go directly towards Acorns care for children with life limiting and life threatening conditions and support for their families.

In the past year, the charity has cared for more than 780 children across the West Midlands, and supported over 1,000 families, including those who are bereaved. Children visit Acorns for rehabilitative respite, symptom management, emergency and end-of-life care.

This care and support is provided from Acorns three hospices, based in Birmingham, Walsall and Worcester, and in the community.

Acorns needs around £35,000 each day to provide its children’s hospice care, with two thirds of that amount coming from generous donations and fundraising by the local community.

Sign up to Bubble Rush today and help Acorns be there for more children and families like Harrison’s.

Tickets are priced £16.50 for adults, £12 for children (3-15) and £4 for those under 3. Family tickets (two adults, two children) are available, priced £50.

Ticket fees cover the cost of putting on the event, and participants are encouraged to raise a minimum of £15 in sponsorship per person – helping Acorns to continue providing its specialist care when it’s needed most.

Get your Bubble Rush tickets

An award-winning West Midlands law firm is bursting with ‘pride’ after backing one of the region’s most popular charity events this summer – for the third year running.

Acorns Bubble Rush is back for 2025, with Talbots Law as its main sponsor. The foamy fundraiser, from Acorns Children’s Hospice, will see hundreds of people bursting through walls of coloured foam in a fun course at Walsall Arboretum, all while raising vital funds for the charity’s lifeline care for local children and families.

Talbots Law, a full-service law firm with offices across the Midlands, will be the headline sponsor for the family-friendly 5k on Sunday 20th July.

A daughter and mom enjoying yellow bubbles during Bubble Rush

Sophie Boreham, Events Manager at Acorns, said: “We are overjoyed to welcome Talbots Law back as our main sponsor for Bubble Rush 2025. Their continued support helps us raise the essential funds we need to provide care for seriously ill children and support for their families.

“Events like this are not only full of joy and community spirit, but they also have a real impact for these families. Help can’t wait – and thanks to wonderful businesses like Talbots Law, we can be there when families need us most.”

In 2023, Talbots Law ‘proudly’ named Acorns Children’s Hospice as its official charity of choice. This marked the beginning of a three-year partnership, chosen by a vote by employee owners as part of their commitment as an employee-owned business.

Dave Hodgetts, Chief Executive of Talbots Law, said: “Bubble Rush has become a key date in our business calendar and we are delighted to be returning as lead sponsor of the event for the third year in a row.

“We are firm believers in the power of giving back and it is a privilege to be able to contribute, so that as much money as possible can be donated to the children and families who rely on the incredible support that Acorns provide.”

Acorns Bubble Rush promises four giant bubble stations, blasting out 4ft-high waves of rainbow-coloured foam. With hundreds of participants joining in on the fun each year, this year’s event is poised to be the most exciting yet, offering an unmissable opportunity for the community to get involved, have fun, and give back.

Tickets are priced £16.50 for adults, £12 for children (3-15) and £4 for those under 3. Family tickets (two adults, two children) are available, priced £50.

Ticket fees cover the cost of putting on the event, and participants are encouraged to raise a minimum of £15 in sponsorship per person – helping Acorns to continue providing its specialist care when it’s needed most.

Acorns Children’s Hospice provides specialist palliative care for babies, children and young people with life limiting and life threatening conditions, and support for their families.

In the past year, the charity has cared for more than 780 children across the West Midlands, and supported over 1,000 families, including those who are bereaved. Children visit Acorns for rehabilitative respite, symptom management, emergency and end-of-life care.

This care and support is provided from Acorns three hospices, based in Birmingham, Walsall and Worcester, and in the community.

Acorns needs around £35,000 each day to provide its children’s hospice care, with two thirds of that amount coming from generous donations and fundraising by the local community.

Get your Bubble Rush tickets

Billions of bubbles and a whole lot of fun – Acorns Children’s Hospice is bringing its biggest-ever Bubble Rush to the Black Country this summer, and you’re invited to join the foamy festivities at a special early bird price.

On Sunday 20 July, Walsall Arboretum will be transformed into a spectacular sea of colour as families, friends and teams take on a bubbly 5k course like no other, all while raising vital funds for seriously ill children.

And to celebrate, the West Midlands charity is offering early bird discounts on tickets booked before Tuesday 6 May – making it the perfect time to secure your spot and save.

Woman carrying a little girl on her back through yellow bubbles.

Sophie Boreham, Events Manager at Acorns, said: “Every year Bubble Rush just gets bigger and better – and this summer, we’re going all out with more bubbles, more fun, and more memorable moments! We can’t wait to see everyone come together for a truly unforgettable day.

“Tickets are on sale now with a special offer for those who are quick to secure them. As well as a fantastic day out for all the family, you’ll be helping to fund lifeline care that children and families in our community desperately need.”

The frothy 5k promises four giant bubble stations, blasting out 4ft-high waves of rainbow-coloured foam. With hundreds of participants joining in on the fun each year, this year’s event is poised to be the most exciting yet, offering an unmissable opportunity for people to get involved, have fun, and give back to the community.

Sophie added: “It’s definitely a fun run with a difference – but it’s not a race. You can walk, jog, skip or toddle your way around with your friends, family, your children and your grandparents.

“No matter how you choose to take on the bubbles, the most important thing is that you finish with a smile on your face!”

Early bird tickets for Acorns Bubble Rush are priced £15 for adults, £10 for children (3-15) and £4 for those under 3. Family tickets (two adults, two children) are available, priced £45.

Ticket fees cover the cost of putting on the event, and participants are encouraged to raise a minimum of £15 in sponsorship per person – helping Acorns to continue providing its specialist care when it’s needed most.

Acorns Children’s Hospice provides palliative care for babies, children and young people with life limiting and life threatening conditions, and support for their families.

In the past year, the charity has cared for more than 780 children across the West Midlands, and supported over 1,000 families, including those who are bereaved. Children visit Acorns for rehabilitative respite, therapeutic interventions, symptom management, emergency and end-of-life care.

This care and support is provided from Acorns three hospices, based in Birmingham, Walsall and Worcester, and in the community.

Acorns needs around £35,000 each day to provide its children’s hospice care, with as much as 72% of that amount coming from generous donations and fundraising by the local community.

Get your Bubble Rush tickets

For the first time ever, six leading children’s hospices are coming together to shine a global spotlight on children’s hospice care with a once-in-a-lifetime trek through the breathtaking Indian Himalayas.

Acorns Children’s Hospice is reaching for new heights with this extraordinary expedition, offering a select few the opportunity to embark on an unforgettable journey through the stunning landscapes of the Indian Himalayas and Dharamshala, home of the Dalai Lama.

The West Midlands charity will be joined by five other children’s charities: Children’s Hospice South West, Demelza, Helen & Douglas House, Naomi House & Jacksplace and Shooting Star Children’s Hospices. These charities all provide vital care and support for children with life limiting and life threatening conditions.

Acorns supporters are being encouraged to sign up for the event and help the charity continue its life-changing care for seriously ill children and their families.

What to expect

Sophie Boreham, Events Manager at Acorns, said: “We are beyond thrilled to be teaming up with five other incredible children’s hospice charities to offer a lucky few individuals the adventure of a lifetime.

“Along the way, Acorns adventurers will experience breathtaking landscapes, including lush green forests, snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, gushing rivers and charming villages with warm and welcoming locals – all while raising vital funds for children with life limiting and life threatening conditions.”

Taking place from 3 – 11 October 2026, this incredible journey will take trekkers into the Lesser Himalayan range of Northern India. Over four days of hiking, adventurers will cover approximately 14km per day, reaching a maximum altitude of 2,841m at Triund.

Keen trekkers can find out more about this special and unique event by joining the free online information evening on 30 April, where they can hear directly from the trek organisers and ask any questions before signing up.

Registration costs £395, with those who sign up before 30 June 2025 receiving an exclusive 10% discount off their registration fee.

Participants are being asked to raise a minimum sponsorship amount of £3,900 or just £1,785, depending on the package they select, with all funds going towards supporting Acorns vital work in providing care for seriously ill children and support for their families.

Sophie added: “For every individual who meets the minimum sponsorship target, Acorns could help pay for a group of 60 siblings to go on an exciting trip of their own or fund two syringe driver machines – a crucial tool for delivering medication and managing a child’s pain.

“Join us for the trip of a lifetime and help make a lasting impact on the lives of seriously ill children.”

Acorns Children’s Hospice provides specialist palliative care for babies, children and young people with life limiting and life threatening conditions, and support for their families.

In the past year, the charity has cared for more than 780 children across the West Midlands, and supported over 1,000 families, including those who are bereaved. Children visit Acorns for rehabilitative respite, symptom management, emergency and end-of-life care.

This care and support is provided from Acorns three hospices, based in Birmingham, Walsall and Worcester, and in the community.

Acorns needs around £35,000 each day to provide its children’s hospice care, with two thirds of that amount coming from generous donations and fundraising by the local community.

To sign up to the free information evening and get more details, visit www.acorns.org.uk/himalayastrek or contact the Acorns Events team via events@acorns.org.uk or call 01564 825 037.

Join the Himalayas Trek

An extremely rare gold disc awarded to UB40 for its hit album ‘Geffery Morgan’ is among an incredible memorabilia package featuring in an online auction for Acorns Children’s Hospice – but time is running out to bid.

The one-of-a-kind collection is part of Acorns Lights, Camera, Auction!, the charity’s biggest auction to date. Running until March 26, there’s just one week left to bid and support the charity’s lifeline care for seriously ill children and their families.

The 40-year-old original framed disc is among a number of rare UB40 items, including original artwork from the band’s iconic debut album which features a signature from founding member and saxophonist Brian Travers, who tragically lost his heroic battle with brain cancer in 2022.

Framed print signed by UB40 band members

Emma Wright, Partnerships Manager at Acorns, said: “Thanks to the generosity of magnificent Birmingham legends and Acorns supporters like UB40, Steven Knight and Ozzy Osbourne, we’re bringing fans a truly spectacular range of one-of-a-kind items and experiences in our online auction.

“But hurry – bidders only have one week left to seize the chance to claim these unique items before they’re gone forever.”

Fans can also get their hands on a limited-edition signed red vinyl of ‘UB45’ – the band’s most recent hit album, as well as two Golden VIP tickets for any upcoming UB40 concert, offering fans an unforgettable live experience with the legendary Birmingham-founded band.

Among the roster of dazzling donations is also a pair of much sought-after tickets for this summer’s final performance by Ozzy and Black Sabbath. This auction presents one of the last opportunities for rock fans to get their hands on the ‘gold-dust’ tickets.

With an extraordinary lineup of exclusive memorabilia from across the production world, as well as a number of luxury experiences and once-in-a-lifetime opportunities, the charity auction has something for every fan.

Other lots include a Michelin-starred meal, a bespoke hair, make-up and wardrobe makeover, a relaxing overnight spa retreat, and VIP tickets to see The Nutcracker, The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe, or the world premiere of Sherlock Holmes and the 12 Days of Christmas.

For Pink Floyd fans there is also a special opportunity to secure a vinyl copy of Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon and a pair of drumsticks signed by famed drummer Nick Mason.

Emma added: “Every bid on this exciting auction will help to provide vital care for local children with life limiting and life threatening conditions. This is your chance to secure your dream prize while supporting families at a time when they need us the most. Don’t miss out!”

To be in with a chance of winning, visit www.acorns.org.uk/bid to place your bid before the auction closes on March 26.

Acorns Children’s Hospice provides specialist palliative care for babies, children and young people with life limiting and life threatening conditions, and support for their families.

In the past year, the charity has cared for more than 780 children across the West Midlands, and supported over 1,000 families, including those who are bereaved. Children visit Acorns for rehabilitative respite, symptom management, emergency and end-of-life care.

This care and support is provided from Acorns three hospices, based in Birmingham, Walsall and Worcester, and in the community.

Acorns needs around £35,000 each day to provide its children’s hospice care, with two thirds of that amount coming from generous donations and fundraising by the local community.

Peaky Blinders fans have the exciting opportunity to own a signed script from the first-ever episode of the award-winning television series in an online charity auction from Acorns Children’s Hospice.

The script, signed by the show’s creator Steven Knight, was generously donated by the renowned screenwriter alongside a rare collection of exquisitely tailored Peaky Blinders suits and caps, designed and created by Garrison Tailors and worn by Birmingham City players in their official 2019/20 home shirt promotional video. These are available either individually or as a set for collectors. Once the new Peaky Blinder film comes out, these suits will soar in value.

The glittering auction, which runs until March 26, is raising vital funds for the hospice charity and its lifeline care for children with life limiting and life threatening conditions and support for their families.

Emma Wright, Partnerships Manager at Acorns, said: “Thanks to the generosity of incredible supporters like Steven Knight and Sharon and Ozzy Osbourne, we’re bringing fans a truly spectacular range of once-in-a-lifetime items and experiences.

“From signed memorabilia by Tom Hardy, to a signed, limited-edition framed print of England’s 1966 World Cup winning team, and even the breathtaking opportunity to see the Northern Lights in Finland, our auction has something for everyone!”

Acorns ‘Lights, Camera, Auction!’ stage and screen auction is the biggest yet for the charity, featuring an extraordinary lineup of items from some of the world’s most beloved productions. With exclusive memorabilia, VIP experiences and luxury getaways up for grabs, this month-long event is a must for fans and collectors alike.

Bidding is already underway, with less than a week left to seize the chance to claim these unique items before they’re gone forever.

Plus a unique opportunity awaits – an exclusive bespoke makeover package featuring top industry professionals. Enjoy expert styling by John Scott, former This Morning stylist and dresser to stars like Julia Roberts and Angelina Jolie. Complete your transformation with a stunning new look by renowned makeup artist Carole Maye, known for her work on Steven Knight’s ‘This Town’, followed by a flawless cut, colour and blow dry by Jamie at JC Hair.

Amongst the roster of dazzling donations is also a pair of much sought-after tickets for this summer’s final performance by Ozzy and Black Sabbath. This auction presents one of the last opportunities for rock fans to get their hands on the ‘gold-dust’ tickets.

Other lots include a Michelin-starred meal, a bespoke cookery class, a relaxing overnight spa retreat, and VIP tickets to see The Nutcracker, The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe, or the world premiere of Sherlock Holmes and the 12 Days of Christmas

For Pink Floyd fans there is also a special opportunity to secure a vinyl copy of Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon and a pair of drumsticks signed by famed drummer Nick Mason.

“Acorns auction truly has something for every fan”

Emma added: “Every bid on this magnificent auction will help to provide lifeline care for children who are seriously ill and support for their families. Don’t miss out and secure your dream prize while supporting families at a time when they need us the most. Together, we can make a real difference.”

To bid on the items and be in with a chance winning visit www.acorns.org.uk/bid

Acorns Children’s Hospice provides specialist palliative care for babies, children and young people with life limiting and life threatening conditions, and support for their families.

In the past year, the charity has cared for more than 780 children across the West Midlands, and supported over 1,000 families, including those who are bereaved. Children visit Acorns for rehabilitative respite, symptom management, emergency and end-of-life care.

This care and support is provided from Acorns three hospices, based in Birmingham, Walsall and Worcester, and in the community.

Acorns needs around £35,000 each day to provide its children’s hospice care, with two thirds of that amount coming from generous donations and fundraising by the local community.

When Acorns Children’s Hospice Staff Nurse Joanna Hutton sees a popcorn machine, she doesn’t just see a gadget that makes a sweet movie favourite. She thinks of popcorn throwing, children having fun, and families making memories. Now she speaks out about the importance of memory-making for families and children whose lives are short – as the charity launches its Celebrate Your Star campaign.

“Memory-making starts from the day we meet the family. It can be at the hospice, or in the home, and we will always make memories every day,” says Staff Nurse Joanna Hutton, at Acorns Children’s Hospice.

“Keepsakes mean the world to families, and they can look at those objects and remember, and picture loved ones in their mind. For years down the line it will always remind them of someone they loved and lost.”

Memories and celebrating the lives of lost loved ones is at the heart of a moving campaign at Acorns – and is offering a unique ‘glittering’ keepsake that people can dedicate to much-missed family members or friends.

Celebrate Your Star is asking supporters to make a donation towards the charity’s lifeline care for seriously ill children in return for a beautiful golden star which can be hung on festive trees or around the home to remember those who are no longer with us.

Memories and treasures like these stars, says Joanna, are an important part of the work that Acorns does when caring for children with life limiting or life threatening conditions.

“Christmas is meant to be the happiest time of the year,” she said. “But obviously, for some families, it can also be the saddest time of year. But with items like our golden stars, they’re like that little trigger to remind them of a moment, or to be able to start a story, to tell someone about that loved one or a memory about them.

“It’s why memory making here at Acorns is pivotal to our care. I know some families who have used hand-prints to turn them into Christmas cards, or keyrings, or baubles that they hang on the tree, and they come out every single year.”

She added: “It can also enable them to share those memories with their wider family and friends. I think that Christmas is a time for being with your family, and being together and remembering those who are no longer with us.”

As she talks Joanna points at a portable popcorn machine, which sits in the corner of a room in the hospice.

“So seeing that popcorn maker, just creates a kind of flashback in time, where I’ve been with kids at the end of their lives,” she said. “It reminds me of siblings throwing popcorn at each other and having a laugh, and of watching films with them here in the hospice and them singing and having fun.

“It can make me emotional thinking about it, but helping to create those memories for families that they wouldn’t be able to get at home makes our job so special and worthwhile.”

Joanna added: “Sometimes it can make me think of sad moments, but it also makes me feel like I’m doing the most amazing job here at Acorns, and gives me a warm feeling in my heart. I feel so very privileged helping to look after these families who come into our hospice and trust us in very difficult times. That’s what that object represents.”

Parents are also thrilled to receive items that have been made by their children, such as paintings, arts and crafts. Families who receive end-of-life care at Acorns are given a memory box, containing hand prints or foot prints, photographs, drawings or paintings, crafts, hand casts, fingerprints, and other items to forever remind the families of a child who has been cared for by the hospice.

Joanna said: “This is time you’re never going to get back. These are the moments we want to capture for you. I know sometimes parents are scared, and they fear the unknown, but I know how grateful families are for those memories after a child has died.

“I think a lot of our families can get nervous about memory making, because of what it signifies to them. But if you’re taking even a small item that your child has made, you have a part of them to keep forever that will hopefully bring happy memories and not sad ones.”

She added: “I feel very privileged to be part of the memory making. I do get a bit choked up sometimes about certain memories that we make here at Acorns, but mostly it brings happy, happy thoughts and we’re so lucky here at Acorns to be part of their lives, however long it is for, to be able to create those moments that families will take with them and remember forever.”

As part of the Celebrate Your Star appeal, Acorns is hosting special celebrations where anyone wishing to remember a loved one can come together to see the collection of stars of remembrance. The events are free and open to all whether people choose to make a dedication or not.

The final two events taking place are at Bournville Quaker Meeting House, Birmingham, on Saturday 7 December; and at Henry Sandon Hall, Worcester, on Sunday 8 December. Attendance is by booking only.

Ben Gilchrist, In Memory Manager at Acorns Children’s Hospice, said: “By dedicating a star you will help give the children and families who use Acorns treasured memories throughout Christmas and into the New Year – and to keep forever.

“Not only will be be remembering your loved ones, your gift will be a light in the darkness for for the children with short lives who need our lifeline care. Help can’t wait for them, especially at this time of year.”

Acorns Children’s Hospice provides specialist palliative care for babies, children and young people with life limiting and life threatening conditions, and support for their families.

In the past year, the charity has cared for more than 780 children across the West Midlands, and supported over 1,000 families, including those who are bereaved.

This care and support is provided from Acorns three hospices, based in Birmingham, Walsall and Worcester, and in the community.

Acorns needs around £35,000 each day to provide its children’s hospice care, with two thirds of that amount coming from generous donations and fundraising by the local community.

Dedicate and receive your star, or book to join one of the Celebrate Your Star events, by visiting www.acorns.org.uk/celebrate-your-star