FRIENDS and family gathered to celebrate the second birthday of a baby who defied the odds after she was born more than three months premature.

When Rebecca Overton-Applebee went into labour in July 2014, doctors said it was unlikely the baby, Iris, would survive.

Friends of Rebecca and Iris gathered at their home in Whiteshill, Stroud, on Saturday for a special celebration to raise funds for Cots for Tots Appeal.

The charity for sick and premature babies at Bristol’s Special Care Baby Unit at St Michael’s Hospital - where Iris was looked after by doctors - raises money for life-saving equipment and new facilities to help save babies’ lives across the UK.

Rebecca said: "Iris had an amazing time, she was full of loveliness and fun and sparkle.

"The weather was really kind to us so we had lots of fun outdoors too.

"I would like to thank everybody who supported the event, everybody has been so nice and generous."

Businesses and community organisations donated a raft of prizes for a raffle in aid of Cots for Tots including Intrigue, Moonflower, Sainsbury's, Painswick Rococo Garden, The Works, B&Q, Trading Post, Majestic Wine and others.

Visitors at the party also made a wish to hang on a willow tree and each donated £1 to the charity.

Around £500 was raised, with the total still being counted.

To find out more about Cots for Tots visit cotsfortots.org.uk.

Stroud News and Journal:

Stroud News and Journal: