STAFF of Witham's Aldi store are gearing up for a fundraising challenge in memory of an infant who tragically died.

John and Kelly Keeble, who live in Great Totham, welcomed daughter Olivia in April 2020, 14 weeks prematurely.

Weighing less than 1kg, Olivia needed 16 minutes of resuscitation, required ventilation for two weeks, and suffered a significant bleed in the brain.

She spent 113 days in hospital, with seven weeks at the Rosie and nine at Broomfield.

Olivia passed away unexpectedly, aged just three.

A group of Kelly’s friends and colleagues from Witham’s Aldi store will be taking part in the 7km Nuclear Races event in Brentwood next month.

Wipe Away Those Tears, an Essex children’s charity, had pledged to fund alternative therapy not available from the NHS for Olivia, for a year.

Braintree and Witham Times: Missed - Olivia tragically died aged just three years oldMissed - Olivia tragically died aged just three years old (Image: John Keeble)

The charity had already funded part of their pledge prior to Olivia’s death and her family felt fundraising on their behalf would be a fitting tribute.

The Nuclear Races challenges participants’ fitness ability, as well as their determination, teamwork and physical strength.

It will be taking place on farmland, with a combination of large and small obstacles.

Store manager John Settle, who will be taking part in the races, said: “We want to do everything we can to support them at this time. 

“Being a store manager, I hope to get some sponsorship from other store managers and area managers, and help support this amazing cause, as well as the work John and Kelly have done and what they’ve been through.” 

Fellow colleague Danni Gunner, who is also Olivia’s godmother, will also be taking part.

She said: “We want to try and get support from everyone at Aldi.

"Kelly has worked for us for about eight years. 

“As Olivia’s godparent, I want to give something back and support the charities that have helped Olivia.” 

Store assistant Sarah Brooker said: “It’s something totally out of my comfort zone, but for a worthwhile charity and for little Olivia.

“She went through so much and if I can push myself to the limits to raise some money for that charity, I’m willing to do that.

“If there’s anything I can do to make a difference to someone else, give a little relief to them, it’s worthwhile doing - and to honour her memory as well.”