PROUD parents Mark and Jenny Smith are today celebrating their new arrival, after overcoming the devastating loss of their baby son.

The couple, who live in Gostling Place, Kesgrave, welcomed baby Erin Taylor Smith, named in memory of her brother, into the world three weeks ago.

After the tragic loss of their nine-month-old son Taylor to meningitis last March, the couple were anticipating their daughter’s birth with mixed emotions.

Proud mother Mrs Smith said their baby girl was the image of Taylor when he was a newborn.

“We didn’t know we were having a girl,” she said. “I was convinced I was having a boy so it was a shock, but we were both happy she was a girl. She looks so much like Taylor, it could have been harder had she been a boy.

“We were feeling anxious before she arrived but we were so excited. She is just lovely.”

Since Taylor’s death the couple have embarked on a fundraising mission, raising about �20,000 to help find a vaccine for a strain of the killer bug.

Their next big challenge is the inaugural Taylor Run, a week-long car rally around the UK setting off in October. Mr Smith is urging people to get involved and join him on the fun run.

He said: “We are looking for people to get involved, even if they cannot take part we still need to raise funds so are looking for people and companies to either donate to the Taylor Run pot, or buy advertising space on the cars.

“One team is looking for a sponsor to donate �500 to have their logo displayed all over the vehicle, like the Roadways logo on my Calibra.

“Ten teams have entered so far and we are looking to get as many as possible so we reach out target of �20,000 for this one event. Thanks to Andy Watkins and Ian Robinson for all their help with organising and car repairs.”

If you would like to take part, call Mark Smith on 07833992707 or visit www.taylor-run.com.