The Sands Garden at the National Memorial Arboretum. Pic: NMAGuide

Bereaved parents and their families are being invited to a remembrance service in Alrewas.

Sands – the stillbirth and neonatal death charity – are hosting a garden day event at the National Memorial Arboretum at 2pm on June 2.

The remembrance service will feature poetry readings and music before a short dedication in the Sands garden.

The Sands Garden at the National Memorial Arboretum. Pic: NMAGuide
The Sands Garden at the National Memorial Arboretum. Pic: NMAGuide

Families will be invited to write their child’s name or a short message on a pebble that will be placed at the side of the path that leads into the garden, which features a Portland stone sculpture of a baby.

Dr Clea Harmer, chief executive of Sands, said: “The death of a baby can have a devastating impact on parents and their families.

“I’d like to invite you to families us at the Sands Garden event whether they are recently or long ago bereaved.

“The welcoming atmosphere and tranquillity of the National Memorial Arboretum provides the perfect setting to remember your baby.”

A red rose will be presented to everyone who attends the event, which can either be placed in the garden or taken home, to mark the 40th anniversary of the charity.

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