A NEWLY refurbished family room has been unveiled at Colchester Hospital thanks to a voluntary group.

Colchester Miracle Babies, which is run by mums whose children have spent time in the neonatal and special care baby unit at the hospital, raised funds for the revamp of the facility by hosting a family fun day last year.

The cash helped pay for the room to be completely redecorated and furnished with a television, games, toys, books and a leather sofa which was donated by business Hatfields.

Last week a plaque was unveiled in the newly revamped room celebrating members' fundraising and Hatfields' kind donation.

Megan Ranson, marketing manager for Hatfields, said: "When Hatfields were contacted by the Colchester Miracle Babies group, we knew immediately that we wanted to be involved in helping if we were able to.

"We're aware of the truly valuable support that the charity offer families who have babies that are premature or poorly, and the difference this support can make to family life."

Families with poorly babies can often spend weeks in the Colchester Neonatal Unit and the family room provides the opportunity for some much needed respite.

Ms Ranson added: "Having seen the room with all its toys, activities, a television and the sofas, we can report that it certainly offers the much needed relaxing and calming space families require during their time at the Colchester Neonatal Unit.”

On Sunday, November 11, Colchester Miracle Babies is hosting a Christmas gift and craft fair at the Jobserve Community Stadiun.

More than 40 stalls are set to be on offer, offering clothings, books, food, drink and much more.

There will be a Santa's Grotto, games for children, face painting and a raffle, with all of the funds from the £2 entry fee going to the neonatal and special care baby unit at Colchester Hospital.

A spokesman for Colchester Miracle Babies said: "The treatment and care provided by staff at the neonatal unit has touched so many families, funds raised at the fair will enable the nursing staff to attend specialised training and continue to help families in even more ways in the future.

"And the event is not just for lovers of Christmas. We will have plenty of stalls and activities that are not Christmas related for those who don’t want to think about the festive season before 1 December.

"We encourage everyone to come along with their family for a fun day out."

For more information, email colchestermiraclebabies@hotmail.com or visit www.facebook.com/events/592976401046181.

Visit www.facebook.com/colchestermbevents to see further updates on future events.