A POIGNANT butterfly release has been held at Airedale Hospital

It was part of an initiative supporting grieving families that have lost babies.

More than 100 people – adults and children – took part in the event, in the Steeton hospital’s Sunbeam Garden.

Behind the venture was SiMBA, a charity which helps families gather precious memories of the short time they had with their baby and offers ongoing support.

The Scotland-based organisation staged its first-ever butterfly release in Inverness in 2012.

This year it is holding 11 events – and the Airedale gathering was its first south of the border.

Sara Fitzsimmons, chief executive officer of SiMBA, said: “When a baby dies, there can be a huge feeling of isolation.

“Our butterfly releases encourage families to come together in a gentle way, knowing that they are surrounded by others who understand their grief. Each event is unique.

“SiMBA is here to offer ongoing support to families. Please remember that you are never alone.”

Among guests at the Airedale release was Keighley town mayor, Councillor Peter Corkindale.

He and others read poems written by families supported by the charity.

There was also face painting and a performance by the Airedale Choir, led by Katie Lister.

The hospital-based Sunbeam Support Group was involved in the organising.

Sarah Simpson, head of midwifery at Airedale NHS Foundation Trust, said the hospital was delighted to host its first SiMBA butterfly release.

“I was honoured to take part in such a wonderful event,” she said.

She paid tribute to all those involved, and added: “We are also hugely grateful to SiMBA and Aidan’s Elephants for providing the beautiful Tree of Tranquility which is the centre-point of our garden.”