A WOMAN is raising money in tribute to her "baby sister" who died from a stroke.

Lisa Allen, from Keighley, a single mum to two children, was just 38 when she died in August, 2022.

Now sibling Gemma Sayer is fundraising for the Stroke Association in her memory.

A fun day is being staged at Steeton Hall Hotel on Saturday, March 9.

And Gemma is taking part in the London Marathon in April.

"Lisa had a significant stroke from which she never regained consciousness," says Gemma, 44, from Eastburn, a midwife at Airedale Hospital.

"She was my baby sister and her death ripped our hearts apart. Her loss has left a massive hole in our lives.

"Since Lisa died I have taken on her two children, which I had always promised to do should any situation arise.

"To support others makes me feel that I’m helping, so – for a second year – I have got into the London Marathon to run on behalf of the Stroke Association. I don’t want anyone else to feel the heartache I felt when Lisa died, but if I can help others by raising funds then I will.

"Our lives will never be the same again, however we might help someone else."

Gemma has set up an online fundraising page, at justgiving.com/page/gemma-sayer-1697655965898

The fun day at Steeton Hall, from 10am to 4.30pm, will feature a wide range of attractions.

Activities will include games, crafts, stalls, Creature Connections, an Easter egg hunt and raffle.

Members of 3rd Keighley (Steeton & Silsden) Scouts will be helping out as part of their fundraising activity badge.

Gemma says: "In addition to the Stroke Association, the fun day will also be supporting other charities.

"They include the Institute of Cancer Research – whom Amanda Illingworth, a fellow midwife, is running the London Marathon on behalf of – plus Whizz Kids, for which Ross Elliott is taking part in the marathon. There will also be a stall to raise funds for Manorlands hospice.

"Everyone is welcome.

"We'd like to thank Steeton Hall Hotel for kindly supporting us with the event."

The Stroke Association provides a range of practical and emotional support, information and advice to help people affected by stroke.

It also funds research into the improvement of treatments, care and rehabilitation.

And it campaigns on related issues.

For further information about the charity and its work, go to stroke.org.uk