A CHOCOHOLIC is planning to give up sweet treats for a month to raise money to prevent life-threatening infections in newborn babies.

Su Newton, of Worsdell Way, Colchester, is taking on the challenge for Group B Strep Support after her daughter Emily, now six, contracted sepsis as a result of the infection when she was born.

Just days into her life, Emily spent a week in intensive care after suffering seizures and her parents were told she was showing signs of damage, but luckily she has recovered well.

But Su and husband Steve were shocked to find out the infection could have been identified during pregnancy and preventative steps could have been made to prevent the tot being so ill.

Su said giving up chocolate was a sacrifice she was willing to make to raise cash for Group B strep support.

She said: "July is Group B Step awareness month and I wanted to do something challenging to raise funds and awareness.

"I’m not a runner, so a 10k was out of the question and I don’t really drink so giving up alcohol would not have been a challenge.

"However, anyone who knows me will know that I am a chocoholic and therefore giving up all chocolate for an entire month is going to be a considerable challenge for me.

"A dechox, rather than a detox."

To sponsor Su visit www.just.giving.com/Su-Newton