LUKE and Gemma Froude knew what would have been their premature baby Finnley’s first birthday would be a difficult day.

But they will mark January 29 with a bid to help others by holding a fundraising day for the charity SSNAP, which supports the special care baby unit at the John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford.

Mrs Froude was admitted to the JR 25 weeks pregnant last January with mild pre-eclampsia.

Finnley was born 12 weeks prematurely weighing just 1lb 4oz – less than a bag of sugar – and was cared for in the neo-natal intensive care unit.

He grew to 7lb 14oz but his heart was not strong enough to survive what doctors believe was a virus or infection. He died in June.

Finnley’s Day, at Banbury Town Hall, in Bridge Street, from 10am to 4pm, will include stalls, food and competitions.

Mrs Froude, 29, of Appleby Close, Banbury, said: “We decided to organise Finnley’s Day because we wanted to be busy on what would be his first birthday. We didn’t want to be sad and moping around.

“SSNAP help supply much-needed equipment to the neo-natal intensive care unit, help train the nurses and support a family liaison officer who is there for the parents.

“The charity work helps us give something back.”

Stalls at the event will sell cards, cakes and books. Also on offer will be face-painting, crafts, knitted items, toys and games.

Raffle prizes will include go karting in Banbury and tickets to the Cotswold Wildlife Park.

The couple have raised about £11,500 for the charity and hope to raise another £1,000 at the event. Bibby Finance, Mr Froude’s employer, will add another £1,000.

The 30-year-old overcame his fear of heights for a charity abseil down the side of the John Radcliffe’s women’s centre and other fundraising events have included car boot sales and a work tuck shop.

To donate items for the raffle, knitting or cakes stall call 07795234292 or 07717710262.