A NORTH-EAST Olympic hopeful has spent the day supporting families of sick and premature babies.

Rower Beth Bryan visited families on the Neonatal Unit at the University Hospital of North Tees, as part of her new role as patron of Neoangels.

The charity offers support with financial costs parents face when having a poorly baby, emotional support and bereavement support.

Ms Bryan, who is currently part of the women’s Great British Rowing Team with numerous silver and bronze medals under her belt, joined the charity in January. fundraising.

"I watched mum on the Unit as I was growing up and was always so inspired by the work the doctors and nurses did," she said

“I used to watch at the doors of each room and be fascinated by everything."

Ms Bryan will be representing Great Britain in the European Sport Championships in Glasgow, the Rowing World Cup in Austria and World Rowing Championships in Bulgaria.