A YOUNG Bridgwater couple have spoken of their heartbreak after their three-month-old baby died of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

Ruth Orchard, 22, and her partner Brad, 26, from Bower Lane were left in shock after baby Zachary died on July 8 this year.

In his memory the couple along with family and friends have been carrying out a week of bake sales and a raffle to raise money for The Lullaby Trust, a charity which support families affected by SIDS.

"We went in the morning and he was not breathing, it has been devastating. He was a lovely, smiley boy and definitely a character," Ruth said.

Bridgwater Mercury:

"It has been a difficult time but we have had great support from our family and friends and want to say a massive thank you to all of them who have been there for us."

It was a member of Ruth's family who first found out about The Lullaby Trust and Ruth was impressed with their work and wanted to give something back.

"We are doing the bake sales and raffle to raise awareness for The Lullaby Trust - we would not have known about them if what happened had not of happened but they do some amazing work," Ruth said.

Brad added: ""I think we, like a lot of people, thought SIDS or what used to be known as cot death, was something in the past and with advancements with technology and in the NHS did not really happen any more. I think it is a bit of a taboo subject.

"I guess it is one of those things you don't think about until it happens to you, but every week in the UK five babies die from SIDS."
The Lullaby Trust offer support to families affected by SIDS whether that is through bereavement counselling, organising days out for affected families, or providing support for the NHS.

Ruth explained: "I saw they do a fundraising campaign called Bake for Babies, and thought it would be a good cause to support."

Ruth has been busy cooking delicious treats including M&M cookies and cherry bakewells and has carried out seven bake sales at various venues including B&M Bridgwater, at the J24 Cattle Market, in the town centre and outside the Co-op on Parkway.
The couple have also been running a raffle with prizes including a photography session with SLC Photography, a family pass to Jolly Jumpers and 10 inch Lenovo tablet donated by Brad's workplace Argos.

"We would just like to say a massive thank you to everyone who has donated prizes and of course all of our family and friends who have been so supportive at this difficult time.

"It is odd what coping mechanisms you have - even just small things like looking after our two cats has helped."

The bake sales raised a total of £1753.98.

To find out more about the work of The Lullaby Trust and to donate to the cause visit: lullabytrust.org.uk.