HUNDREDS of babies and toddlers with the Water Babies group have taken to the water in Gloucestershire and North Wiltshire to raise more than £10,000 for the charity Tommy’s.

The series of ‘splashathon’ events saw the youngsters take part in special fundraising classes throughout June and July by swimming in fancy dress.

The money raised for Tommy’s will go towards research into miscarriages, stillbirths and premature births and is expected to help up to 60,000 families nationally.

Claire Southworth of Water Babies Gloucester and North Wiltshire said: “Water Babies has been a proud partner of the Tommy’s Splashathon since 2006 and we are over the moon to have raised so much this year, because this is helping to meet our national fundraising target of £1 million by the end of the summer.

“The enthusiasm and passion shown by all our little splashers and their families has been overwhelming and we’d like to say a really big thank you to all those who took part and also those who donated.

“Every year, 1 in 4 women lose a baby during pregnancy or birth. Water Babies is committed to supporting Tommy’s in reducing this unacceptable statistic that devastates families up and down the country.

“So every parent, carer, child and baby that has taken part will be helping other babies who aren’t as lucky."

Jane Brewin, CEO at Tommy’s, commented: “We are overwhelmed by the number of children who got dressed up and took part in the campaign this year and by the generosity of those who have supported by donating to the cause.”

For more information and to donate to the Tommy’s Splashathon, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/splashathon2017