A FUNDRAISING campaign in memory of a four-month-old baby who died of cerebral palsy has been launched.

Kyle Brooklyn died in his mother's arms at his Darlington home on January 28.

Now a family friend, Linda Heseltine, is planning a sponsored parachute jump to raise funds for Harewood House, the multi-agency resource centre in Darlington which helped care for him.

Ms Hesletine, 39, was diagnosed with ovarian cancer five years ago and had planned to raise money for the hospital ward where she was treated.

But she changed her mind after Kyle was born and decided to do the jump to raise cash for equipment for him and Harewood House.

"I have always wanted to do a parachute jump and, since being diagnosed with cancer, I need to do things that I want to do now," she said. "I think it's a worthwhile cause, especially because the disabled kids who get help are local."

Kyle's mother, Dawn, 38, who has three other children, said the support she received from Harewood House staff was "brilliant".

"They were lovely, really supportive. If I had problems they would come straight out to see him."

Kyle's grandmother Jackie Britton, 56, said: "They were marvellous with Kyle."

More than £600, including a £100 anonymous donation, has already been raised in sponsorship for the jump, in Peterlee next month. To contribute, call Ms Heseltine on (01325) 267307 or 07790 151775.