FAMILIES touched by stillbirth and Louise Roland's story turned out in their droves for a fundraising teddy bears' picnic.

Blankets covered the lawn surrounding Wivenhoe House as children got cuddles from a life-size bear, embraced pygmy goats and chicks, and stared in amazement at Disney princesses wandering the grounds.

It was all for 4Louis, a charity which nurtured parents Louise, 28, and Kavell Coatman when their daughter was stillborn last year.

They raised more than £1,700 at the event and gave guests a shock by bringing newborn son Khenan, who was just ten days old.

Louise said: "Holding my little boy was the biggest highlight, but all the activities went down really well.

"I never expected so much of a turnout at my first event and was worried about how people would take to the picnic, but the lawn was full, which was brilliant to see.

"Our clicker counted at least 300 people so I was really overwhelmed by how much support we had."

READ MORE: MUM RELIVES STILLBIRTH TRAGEDY AHEAD OF CHARITY FUNDRAISER

One of the more touching moments was a balloon release for all the baby angels like Ixora-Louise.

She added: "At her funeral we released butterflies which was beautiful, but so personal.

"I'd thought about balloons but didn't think I'd be able to. However, Wivenhoe House were all for it.

"It was emotional for me, more so the day after because at the time, I was running on adrenaline.

"But then it all sunk in about what the event was for and how well it went.

"I kept thinking, 'Oh my gosh, I did that'."

Given its success, Louise is pretty certain there will be another event next year.

And as there are still unclaimed raffle prizes to be dished out, follow the Facebook page for details of what you might be able to win.

Louise is also still fundraising so to donate, click here.

  • If you have been affected by the loss of a child, go to Sands - the Stillbirth and Neonatal Death charity - at uk-sands.org.