A "ZUMBA marathon" in memory of a baby who died at just two weeks old has given a big boost to a neonatal unit which will help save the lives of other sick babies in intensive care.

The high energy fundraiser in memory of baby Bessie May Philpott took place at Nunnery Wood Sports Complex, Spetchley Road, Worcester on Sunday.

Seventy women took part in the 90 minute marathon (sessions normally lost an hour), organised by Danielle Skyrme after her cousin lost her baby just two weeks after she was born in July.

Between them the women raised at least £350 for the charity Support for the Sick Newborn and their Parents (SSNAP), the charity which provides extra resources to the newborn intensive care unit at the John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford where Bessie received her care.

This amount will go towards the £1,000 Mrs Skyrme has already put towards her Three Peaks total, a challenge she aims to complete on Friday, August 22.

Her cousin Simon Philpott's wife Maria gave birth but was told that Bessie who weighed just 3lbs 15.5oz had serious complications and they would not be able to take her home.

Mother-of-two Mrs Skyrme, 29, of Red Hill Lane, Spetchley, Worcester, said: "It is a great turnout and a brilliant atmosphere. People have turned up from lots of different places to join in. I'm over the moon."

She also wished to give her thanks to those who attended, the zumba instructor Tina Donkin who ran the marathon for free and the sports centre which allowed them to use the hall for free. Mrs Skyrme said: "Because of that every penny goes to the charity which is amazing. I want to say a massive thank you to everyone who has supported me."

Mrs Skyrme has been training on the Malvern Hills for the Three Peaks Challenge which involves climbing the three highest mountains in England, Scotland and Wales within 24 hours.

For more information about SSNAP visit ssnap.org.uk or call 01865 221359.

To support her and make a donation visit mycharitypage.com/Danis3PeaksChallenge.