BABIES and toddlers across Stourbridge have taken part in a non-stop sing-a-thon in the hope of raising money for baby charity Tommy’s.

Youngsters from Music Bugs Halesowen, which runs classes at Clent Parish Hall and Oakfield Community Centre, in Brierley Hill, were sponsored to sing songs from around the world to fund vital research into stillbirth, premature birth and miscarriage.

As part of the fundraising efforts, the children and their parents dressed up in national costumes from countries around the world.

Emma Rhodes, of Music Bugs, said: “I have been overwhelmed by the support of my families and the effort they have gone to with fundraising and costumes.

“We had a great week with lots of laughs and I think we managed to sing about all the continents of the world.

“We had a great time and so far Music Bugs Halesowen has raised £230 from online donations but many parents opted for good old paper sponsor forms so that will take a little longer to come in.

“I’m hoping we will raise £500, but nationally Music Bugs has raised just over £20,000 but this will continue to rise too.”

The money raised will help fund Tommy’s four research centres, as currently one in four parents in the country lose a baby during pregnancy or birth and 60,000 babies are born prematurely each year.

Jane Brewin, chief executive of Tommy’s, said: “Sing-a-thon is a great way for parents and carers to involve their little ones in a good cause.

“Tommy’s relies on the generosity and hard work of its supporters like Music Bugs to continue its pioneering research to prevent pregnancy complications. We hope everyone had a fantastic time.”