A Colchester woman who cares for a little girl who was born profoundly deaf has "given back" to the charity who helped her. 

Sophie Campbell, a registered childminder, looks after Grace, who receives ongoing support from the National Deaf Children’s Society.

The mum-of two, who lives in Wivenhoe with husband Mark, organsied a special event to thank the charity for its support of Grace. 

The event which involved an array of fun-filled activities including a children's disco and a raffle took place at William Loveless Hall in Wivenhoe.

Sophie, who is mum to Coral, seven, and Ezra, one, said: "The National Deaf Children’s Society has been so helpful in offering advice and guidance to help me support Grace that I wanted to give a little love back.

"We did a charity bake sale last year which was very successful, so this year decided to up it a level.

"I’m so proud of all my children who helped to organise, run stalls with their parents and make decorations.

"It’s truly heartwarming that so many people wanted to support us for this worthy cause and I can’t thank them all enough.

"I’m already thinking about how we can make it bigger next year."

The charity aids the 50,000 deaf children and their families in the UK.

The dedication and generosity of Sophie were lauded by Tamsin Bayliss who supports fundraisers for the National Deaf Children’s Society.

Tamsin Bayliss said: "I want to say a huge thank you to Sophie for her fundraising efforts on our behalf, she really has pulled out all the stops - we’re so grateful to you.

"The National Deaf Children’s Society is dedicated to supporting the UK’s 50,000 deaf children and their families.

"The efforts of selfless fundraisers like Sophie will help us to keep on doing our vital work, now and into the future."

More than 1,000 deaf children in Essex directly benefit from the National Deaf Children’s Society’s mission to create a world without barriers for each deaf child.

It provides tailored information, support, and resources to families, empowering them to make informed decisions and provide for their children’s needs.