Almost five years after fearing her baby daughter might die, a thankful mum is now preparing to send her off to school.

Amanda Day went through every mother's nightmare when her daughter Megan was born three months premature - weighing just 1lb 6oz - in September 2002.

The 39-year-old had suffered pre-eclampsia during her pregnancy, while medical staff were given just minutes to deliver Megan after Amanda's placenta came away from her womb.

The tiny baby girl quickly developed septicaemia and a heart condition, and doctors told Amanda and her husband Colin that she may only have hours to live.

It was a tough few months for the couple and Amanda's other two children, Carrie, now 18, and 16-year-old Ben - especially when Megan missed her first Christmas at home after developing bronchitis.

But nearly five years later, the little girl has been given a clean bill of health, and is preparing for her first term at primary school in September.

"When you are told your child might die, it's so awful," said Amanda, who lives in Old Road, Frinton.

"The trained nurse says she hopes Megan's story will be an inspiration to other parents coping with the worry of a sick child.

"I want to tell people that their babies can survive," she said.

"I want to give them hope."