As he approaches his first birthday Oliver Skeet is a tiny tot on a fundraising mission.

Instead of birthday presents to mark his milestone, Oliver’s parents Sam and Stephen Skeet are asking family and friends to donate money to Ipswich Hospital’s children’s ward.

Mrs Skeet, 31, said they were inspired to help after experiencing first hand the “outstanding care” from the nurses and medics on Bergholt Ward.

Over Easter, Oliver was admitted to the ward after suffering breathing problems.

“We were completely overwhelmed by the care Oliver received,” Mrs Skeet, of the Rivers estate, Ipswich, said.

“Not only were they caring and kind, the staff go above and beyond. They buy dummies and other bits and bobs for the kids, out of their own money.

“We wanted to get them some flowers to say thank you but after hearing they rely on public donations for lots of things, we decided to raise money instead.”

To celebrate Oliver’s first birthday the couple have organised a fun day at their home for friends and family. A host of businesses, including Ipswich Town FC, have donated items for the raffle.

“It was awful to see Oliver in hospital but we were so touched by the great care,” said Mrs Skeet, who is also mum to four-year-old Nellie.

People are invited to donate money should they wish visit www.oliver4bergholt.eu

Mrs Skeet said a special thank-you to Creasey’s butchers in Woodbridge for donating the meat for the fun day.