I would like to say a huge thank you to everyone at the East Lancashire Women & Newborn Centre in Burnley who were simply incredible with us during our recent traumatic birth experience, during what must be the most difficult time they've probably ever had to deal with in their careers (covid-19 lockdown).

My dream is to raise enough money to contribute towards a big celebration for everyone, from antenatal, to the Birth Centre and Suite, NICU, postnatal and beyond, when life returns to 'normal'.

If you read my birth story on my website (www.firstyearfilms.co.uk) you'll know the outstanding care and professionalism we experienced from a huge team working together under the ever-changing and added pressure of covid-19 lockdown, and if I can raise even just a small amount to say thank you I would be over the moon.

The ultimate goal would be the party (or even just some drinks), however, initially I would like to raise enough money to buy some desperately needed handcream which seems to be in short supply.

By the time baby Jack and I were discharged, my hands were getting painful and cracked from all the extra handwashing and I didn't have to do a fraction of the hand cleaning they were having to do. Everytime they see a new patient, visit a new area, change station, it all requires hand washing - something they're probably used to but now handcream seems to be in short supply. So even a small gesture like this would go a long way to saying thank you.

Thank you for taking the time to read my fundraising appeal. Anything, no matter how small you could contribute would be very gratefully received.

Nicola, Darren, Harrison and baby Jack Bentley-Wells xxx