Fundraising effort well on target

A FUNDRAISING campaign in memory of a baby boy from Kesgrave who died after contracting meningitis is today well on track to reach its goal ahead of schedule.

Taylor Westley-Smith died in March just 15 hours after displaying the first signs of the killer brain bug.

While grieving for their nine-month-old son, devastated parents Jennifer and Mark Smith, of Gostling Place, embarked on a mission to raise money for Meningitis UK.

And with the target of �10,000 well within reach by the first anniversary of Taylor's death on March 15 the couple are overjoyed at the support they have received.

The recent event, the Taylor Cup, a cricket tournament held last weekend helped boost the fund by around �3,000 bringing the running total to about �9,000.

Mr Smith said: “The Taylor Cup went really well, the auction was really popular and we raised more than we had expected.

“All the support we have received really keeps us going and to see people enjoying the events is a big bonus, it makes it all worth while at the end of the day.”

He added: “We would like to thank everybody that helped out, the team captains, Ipswich Cricket Club and everyone who donated to this event.”

With six teams battling it out to reach the finals the day proved popular with supporters. Face painting, a bouncy castle, guess the name of the bear competition, and other games kept youngsters entertained.

And in the evening a raffle and auction gave people the chance to get their hands on rare cricket memorabilia.

The next event in the calendar to help boost the fund and exceed the target is the Taylor Run.

Mr Smith said they are looking for teams to sign up for the challenge to take a car worth �500 or less around the UK. Each team has to raise a minimum of �600 sponsorship and the event will involve seven days of driving and touring the country.

For further information and to register a team visit www.taylor-run.com.