THE DEVASTATING death of a much-loved grandchild inspired a Darlington woman to create a growing family of 'memory bears'.

Six-year-old Erin Adam died shortly before Christmas 2014, leaving behind a heartbroken family still struggling to comprehend their loss.

Her grandmother, Debbie Purdy, is now using her creative talents to turn grief into poignant gifts for others coming to terms with bereavement.

Ms Purdy lost her beloved granddaughter in the same year she lost her long-running business and was diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome.

Amidst that terrible time – her ‘annus horribilis’, she says – Erin’s mother Sabrina Purdy asked her if she could turn some of Erin’s belongings into memories for her brother and sisters.

She said: “Losing Erin was absolutely devastating and it still is – she was an angel when she was here and she’s an angel now.

“That year, my health deteriorated, my business closed and I felt like I wasn’t contributing so I started sewing to keep my mind busy.

“Sabrina came to me and asked if I could make something out of Erin’s clothes and I thought it’d be a great idea.

“I didn’t want to make a blanket that would get put away or a cushion that could get squashed – I thought it’d be nice for Erin’s brothers and sisters to have a bear each.

“The bears are a memento and also something to hug that’s made of something Erin actually wore.”

Erin’s bears were received so well that Ms Purdy decided to make them for others.

She said: “Making them brought me in touch with Erin and they brought about a strength of feeling and so many smiles.

“It was a lovely feeling and I thought I should do the same for others.

“I’m giving them something to make them feel happy – I’m making mementos of memories, of love and of the relationship they had.

“The bears are something to treasure and something to feel an attachment to, something they can hug, not just look at.”

Darlington Funeral Service (DFS), on North Road, are displaying Erin’s Memory Bears in their window.

Barbara Rea, from DFS, said: “As soon as Debbie came to us with the idea, I knew it was something that was needed.

“The bears are unique and they’re created from the heart.”

Erin’s Memory Bears cost £22.50. To order the bears or other items, email sunshinebears@yahoo.com or call 07809 703777.