A YOUNG mum whose premature baby girl is fighting for life in hospital has thanked the community for their 'amazing' support.

Romi-Jane Young, 24, from Accrington, gave birth to little Sienna-Rose eight weeks early on February 9.

The tiny tot was born by caesarean section at Burnley General Hospital weighing just 3lb 1oz.

But at just a week old the youngster, whose slow growth in the womb had caused concern to doctors, had to undergo life-saving surgery to remove part of her infected bowel.

Romi, a former Accrington carnival Queen said: “The hardest thing about this situation is I have not been able to hold her yet and give her a cuddle.

“Every day she is getting stronger and I have been reading her stories and singing to her so she knows who I am.

“The support me and Sienna-Rose’s daddy have received from our family and friends has been amazing.

“It has really helped us be strong for Sienna-Rose.

“During my pregnancy I felt fine but doctors were worried about her growth and that is why they booked me in for an early cesarean.

“At first I was a little apprehensive but I knew that the doctors would be able to do more for her is she came out early. All the hospital staff have been brilliant.”

The Hyndburn community has rallied round to help the 25-year-old mum since Sienna-Rose was born.

A collection raised more than £140 at the hen party of a family friend as well an a fundraising event at the Stanley Street Club, in Accrington.

The money will help towards the travelling costs of Romi and her family as they take in it turns to visit Sienna-Rose at St Mary’s Hospital, in Manchester.

Romi, of Marlborough Road, Accrington said: “I have been completely overwhelmed at how the local community has come together to support us.

“People who don’t even know us have helped out. My two best friends Claire Bradshaw and Hollie Kitchen were the ones who organised the special event at the Stanley Street Club and I can’t tell you how much it means.”