THE family of a baby struck down by meningitis say they are ‘overwhelmed’ by the support they have received from local people.

Eight-month-old Louie Jenkins, from Colne, lost both legs, the fingers on his left hand and the tips of the fingers on his right hand after contracting the disease.

Parents Julie, 29, and Warren Jenkins, 31, are pleased that he that he has now been allowed to return to their Bath Street home after a nine-and-a-half week stay at Leeds General Infirmary.

The couple have begun an awareness campaign for meningitis and fundraising drive for Louie and hundreds turned up for the launch event at Foulridge village hall.

Julie said: “I am completely overwhelmed by the response we have had. I was worried that people wouldn’t turn up but we’ve had hundreds come through the door. We were hoping to raise around £2,500 but now I think it could easily be more.

“As well as raising money, we hope we have raised awareness of the signs of meningitis – we put pocket-sized leaflets out for people to take.

“If everyone who came took one, then we might have helped to save someone else’s life. We will definitely be holding another fundraiser at some point – the next will be to raise money for Louie.

“I’m hoping to set up a trust fund for him so when he needs to get equipment or prosthetic legs, he has the ability to get what he needs.”

Louie was rushed initially to Airedale Hospital after he fell sick, with Julie noticing a tell-tale rash while bathing him.

The chocolate tea party fundraiser at the weekend was to raise money for the Meningitis Trust, The Sick Children’s Trust and Ward 48 at the Leeds hospital.