Families who have lost babies and children came together for a multi-faith remembrance on Sunday.

They watched as 40 balloons were released taking a memorial item to remember each child who has died.

The ‘Time to Remember’ event brought together 40 family members, friends, hospital and community staff at the Royal London Hospital in Whitechapel to celebrate the lives of the youngsters.

“Losing a child is a devastating experience,” said Barts Health Chaplain David Rushton, who led the service.

“But these events mean families draw strength from one another through their shared experience.

“Some may not have a place to take their grief. Coming together allows them to express the loss they’re struggling with.

“One mother said it allowed her to face the world again.”

The service included music, poetry and quiet time for families to remember children they have lost and to be supported by those who have suffered a similar loss. Personal poems of remembrance written by family members were read aloud.

Among the parents were those who had lost a child in recent months and those whose children youngsters had passed away 20 years ago.