TWO inspirational parents whose baby died last year have raised more than £10,000 for charity in her honour.

Stuart Muir, 28, and his 25-year-old wife Nicole tragically lost their daughter Esme in February 2016.

Despite their heartbreaking loss, the pair, who live in Paisley, have managed to raise thousands of pounds for the Simpson’s Memory Box Appeal (SiMBA), a charity that responds to the needs of those affected by the loss of a baby.

Stuart and Nicole’s latest fundraiser was a “Men in Skirts” event held at Arthurlie Football Club, in Barrhead.

The match saw their friends wearing girly garments, including pink tutus, with more than £1,000 being raised for SiMBA.

Stuart said: “The cash will be going to the Royal Alexandra Hospital, in Paisley, to help pay for a family room.

“This is a quiet room where people who lose their baby can be alone with them before they leave the hospital.

“The charity has been a big help to us and has been the reason for us hosting these fundraising events.”

Other fundraising events organised by Stuart and Nicole have included a sponsored climb of Ben Lomond, a Kilt Walk and bake sales.

Stuart added: “Arthurlie will be letting us use the park again for another fundraiser next year and we hope to get a bit more help organising it, to make it even bigger and better.”

It is hoped to become an annual event at Arthurlie FC and become even bigger and better for next year.

David Blakey, chairman of Arthurlie FC, said: “Stuart and his partner approached us to use the pitch and we were more than happy to let them have their event here.

“Stuart's friends played and there was a special guest, former player Eric Phillips, who was in goals for the event.

“They were a smashing bunch of guys and it is very inspiring all the fundraising work that Stuart and Nicole have done for the charity.”

A SiMBA spokeswoman said: “Nicole and Stuart’s ongoing work has been amazing, raising a lot of money and awareness of the charity.

“They have requested that the money goes to the RAH. We will distribute memory boxes there, including a blanket, birth acknowledgement certificate, hand and footprints and, in some cases, photos.

“Two cuddle cots have also been given to the unit. We also have plans to launch a support group in the area for families who have lost a child.”

For more details about SiMBA, visit www.simbacharity.org.uk.