A HUSBAND and wife whose daughter died after being born 16 weeks early is raising money for two charities in her memory.

John and Claire Parker, from Shildon, County Durham, lost their daughter, Rhian Alicia, on May 10, this year, six weeks after her premature birth.

The couple had endured two unsuccessful attempts at in vitro fertilization, but Mrs Parker fell pregnant after the third course.

She was only 24 weeks and one day into the pregnancy when Rhian Alicia was born at The James Cook University Hospital, in Middlesbrough, on March 26.

Mrs Parker said: “I’d had an infection and there was a tear in the membrane. My waters started leaking early. No one can explain why it happened.”

The baby was rushed to Newcastle’s Royal Victoria Infirmary (RVI) where she underwent surgery on her bowel.

She died six weeks later after developing pneumonia.

At her funeral, mourners donated £500, which was divided between the Tiny Lives charity, based at the RVI, and the Sick Children’s Trust.

The Parkers have decided to organise a fundraising event for the two charities, which will take place at the Fox and Hounds pub, Shildon, on Saturday, August 28.

There will be entertainment for children and families from 3pm to 7pm, followed by a country and western-theme night, from 8pm to 11.30pm.

The couple expressed gratitude to their families, friends and well-wishers who have helped them raise several hundred pounds, including donations from Mr Parker’s colleagues at Nissan, in Sunderland, Pinpoint Technologies, Shildon Scooter Club, and Durham County Council’s Chilton depot.

They also thanked the Bay Horse pub, in Middridge, and HairHaus, in Bishop Auckland, and numerous other businesses and individuals in Shildon for donating raffle prizes for the event.

Mr Parker, who has two children, Brogan, 19, and Daniel, 16, from a previous relationship, said: “The landlord at the pub suggested we organise a charity night and it’s escalated from there.

“It is good to see so many people care about us and surprising how many have been through this themselves.”

He added: “We have our good days and bad days.”

Their 11-year-old nephew, Bailey Tomlinson, is also raising money by taking part in a 20-mile bike ride, following a route from Shildon to Rushyford, Newton Aycliffe, and back, on August 7. So far, he has raised £500.

To donate, visit justgiving.

com/claireparker260310