He was born seriously ill with bronchitis, weighing less than a kilogramme at just 26 weeks.

And it was thanks to the Sick Children's Trust that the family of little Samson Smith, who has just turned one, were able to be close to him after he was taken to Addenbrooke's Hospital in Cambridge for life-saving post-natal care.

Now Samson's mother, Diane, father, Dan, and other family and friends have held a fun day to say thank you to the charity.

More thank 100 people were at the Mulbarton Scout Hut for the fundraising event on Saturday to enjoy inflatable games, bouncy castles and slides, a cake sale and tombola.

Mrs Smith, from Mulbarton, said: 'It's been amazing. I'm overwhelmed by how many people have come along to have fun and help us fundraise.'

The family spent eight days at Acorn House, which is run by the charity, while Samson was at Addenbrooke's.

Mrs Smith said: 'It was just a five-minute walk from his bedside.

'We wanted to thank the Sick Children's Trust for being there and helping us stay together when we were in an unimaginable period in our lives.'

She said Samson, who now weighs closer to six kilogrammes, loves playing in the water and can even stand up – with a little help from mum or dad.

To donate, visit www.mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/dianesmith1