A MUM who lost her first baby and is now fronting a charity campaign has bravely told how she is battling anxiety to help other bereaved parents.

Karyn Jenkins and her husband Andrew lost daughter Sophie Louise in 2012 at 22 weeks and she is now leading a fundraising effort for a memorial tree in Gourock Park.

Karyn, who recently hosted a pop-up shop in Kempock Street, admits she isn't used to being in the limelight - and has bravely revealed how she is facing up to her fears to organise a Ladies Day function next Sunday to boost the appeal.

Gourock mum Karyn said: “I am really nervous about the ladies day.

"I suffer very badly from anxiety but I am trying to push through it.

"So far I am happy with how I have handled it.

“I am now just hoping that the ladies have a great day and enjoy all their prizes and the amazing entertainment we have lined up.

“We have a large raffle with lots of prizes, a tombola and another raffle for larger prizes.

“I have made the little favours myself and have been given donations of crochet butterflies from volunteers including from Mairi and her customers at The Crafty Owl.

“I have also ordered a sweetie cart and everything seems to be coming together. I am just really hoping to raise a lot of money on the day.”

Next weekend's event has been boosted after Tesco in Port Glasgow decided to donate £500 to help make it a success.

Staff collected £500 which Karyn has used to purchase a television as a star prize, fund bottles of fizz on arrival for her guests and also purchase additional prizes.

Tesco community champion Lynn Emerson said: “I spoke to Karyn about her fundraiser and we were more than happy to do what we could to help.

“We managed to raise £500 by hosting a bottle stall and the proceeds from our book stall, which we handed over to Karyn recently, pictured.

“She was so appreciative and we wish her all the best for the event.”

Karyn says she's been overwhelmed by the support she has received from Tesco and other businesses and individuals.

She said: “Lynn and her team couldn’t have been more helpful, they offered to help in any way they could and I am so appreciative.

“Everyone has been so supportive.

"I am now crossing my fingers for a good day.”

* The Ladies Day will be held in the Clyde Suite in Greenock on Sunday July 28 from 1pm until 5.30pm. There are still tickets left for the event which features a Michael Buble tribute, games, a DJ and a hot buffet. To purchase tickets contact 07903910135 or email karyn_kelly@msn.com