A COUPLE who sadly lost two babies last year have raised more than £23,000 for the team at Salisbury Hospital that supported them through the trauma.

Neal Riley and his wife Els said their world fell apart after losing their son, Oscar, at 31 weeks in January 2023, then in November lost their daughter Sophie, at 35 weeks.

The couple were supported by the Stars Appeal Benson Suite, within the Maternity Department at Salisbury District Hospital, which provides a dedicated, private space where families who sadly experience the death of a baby at birth can be cared for with their baby, away from the Labour Ward.

The specialist suite helps ensure the time these families are able to spend with their baby is as precious, dignified and personal as possible, the hospital said.

In memory of their children, Neal and Els, with the support of friends and family, have been raising money over the last 18 months.

Among the challenges was a 100-hole golf challenge in June at the Rushmore Golf Club, which saw Neal and friends raise more than £16,000.

The golf team has raised thousands for the Benson Suite at Salisbury District Hospital

The challenge, which started at 4.20am, took more than 16 hours to complete and saw the team walk 30 miles. They previously completed a 72-hole golf fundraiser, raising more than £4,500.

Since January 2023, £23,512 has been raised for the Benson Suite in memory of Oscar and Sophie.

Neal said: “I’m immensely proud of the team and the amount of money we have raised for a charity that is so close to our hearts.

“The day was a massive success, lots of people turned up to welcome us home. We all had a few aching bones on the Monday morning after the golf marathon. Thank you to everyone who has supported us.”

Speaking of the support they received at the Benson Suite and from the Stars Appeal Bereavement Midwife, the couple said: “The Benson Suite provided a space where we could process the tragedy and come to terms with losing Oscar and Sophie.

“The staff were incredible, supporting us throughout and making us feel at ease.”