A father whose only child died just after hours after she was born will be taking part in a series of fundraising events to raise awareness of baby loss.

Tragedy struck for Ross Coniam and his wife Naomi when baby Norah died in May last year at Watford General Hospital in what doctors described as a neonatal death.

Mr Coniam, who lives in Watford, has set himself challenges over the coming year but his main focus if getting people to talk.

The 36-year-old, who lives with his wife Naomi in Watford, said: “After the tragedy, I tried to keep my mind focused. Sometimes it can be really tough. But I’ve motivated myself to talk and spread awareness of what it is like to lose a child. Importantly, especially with men, it’s about getting them to talk to.”

Mr Coniam is no stranger to raising money. In 2015, following the news that his ten-year-old nephew Kieran had died following a number of health problems. In his memory, Mr Coniam pledged to complete five challenges to raise money for Keech Hospice Care, where Kieran spent a lot of his time.

Watford Observer:

Ross pictured taking part in the Great North Run

Following heartache of his own, Mr Coniam will be raising money for four charities and has been working hard to get in to shape as he embarks on marathons and races this year.

He has already booked in the Big Half in London, the London Marathon, The Isle of Wight 106km Ultra Challenge, Endure 24, and the Great North Run, but also has aspirations to climb mountains and take part in bike rides.

Money raised will go to Sands, a stillbirth and neonatal death charity, 4Louis who donate memory boxes to hospitals, a midwifery trust called Iolanthe, and Keech Hospice Care.

Speaking about his plans, Mr Coniam added: “It is going to be a push. I ran the Great North Run in September so I think I’m ready and motivated.”

Visit Mr Coniam's fundraising page at https://www.gofundme.com/nine4norah and follow his journey on the Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/Nine4Norah/?modal=admin_todo_tour