A poignant ribbon display will return to Clacton’s seafront as Tendring District Council once again shows its support for Baby Loss Awareness Week.

The awareness week runs from Friday, 9 October to Thursday, 15 October, providing an opportunity for people affected by pregnancy and baby loss to come together in remembrance, reflection and support.

For the eighth year, pink, white and blue ribbons will adorn the railings of Clacton’s Memorial Garden, alongside handmade hearts and teddy bears. Each tribute is dedicated to the memory of a baby or child who is deeply missed.

The annual display is organised by Maria Gormley, a volunteer and Befriender with the Clacton-on-Sea Sands group.

Clacton Town Hall will also be illuminated in blue and pink during the week as a visible symbol of the council’s support for bereaved families and everyone affected by pregnancy and baby loss.

Councillor Ann Oxley, Chairman of Tendring District Council, visited the Memorial Garden with Maria Gormley.

She said: “The ribbon display is a deeply moving tribute to babies and children who are loved, missed and remembered.

“Each ribbon represents a precious life and carries its own personal meaning. By supporting the display and lighting Clacton Town Hall in blue and pink, we hope to show bereaved families across Tendring that they are not alone.

“I would like to thank Maria and everyone involved for creating this special place for remembrance, reflection and support.”

Maria Gormley said: “Every year, the return of the Remembrance Ribbon Display to Clacton for Baby Loss Awareness Week is a moving reminder of the babies who are loved, missed and remembered. Each ribbon, heart and teddy serves as a tribute to a precious life and a symbol of support for the families living with loss.

“The display has grown into a valued community initiative, providing a space for remembrance, reflection and conversation. It helps shine a light on pregnancy and baby loss, encouraging greater understanding and support for those affected.

“Above all, I hope the display reminds bereaved families that they are not alone. Support is available, and together we can ensure that no one has to navigate their grief in isolation.”

Anyone wishing to find out more about the Clacton-on-Sea Sands group and the Remembrance Ribbon Display can email Maria Gormley at maria.gormley@sands.org.uk. Donations can be made through the 2026 Remembrance Ribbon Display JustGiving page.

For information about Sands and the support available to anyone affected by pregnancy or baby loss, visit the Sands website.

More information about the awareness week is available from the Baby Loss Awareness Week website.