THE heartbroken parents of Violet-Grace Youens are encouraging the community to support a fundraising event in memory of their daughter and “remember a beautiful little soul”.


Four-year-old Violet-Grace died on Saturday, March 25, a day after she was struck by a stolen car on Prescot Road while walking with her grandmother.


Her parents, Glenn and Becky Youens, have been “so touched and blown away by the love and support” from the community and have been helping to organise an event alongside others, which will raise money for the hospitals that tried to save their daughter’s life.


The tragedy will come into sharp focus again this week when the man who has pleaded guilty to causing her death by dangerous driving is sentenced at Liverpool Crown Court. Glenn and Becky are set to attend the hearing.


A motorcycling and cycling event, called 'Ride 4 Violet-Grace', has been a “positive focus” for the family. 


More than 300 motorcyclists and cyclists are expected to turn out wearing superhero costumes or the colour violet on Sunday, July 9.


The event will start at noon at Saints’ stadium, where motorcyclists will ride to both Whiston Hospital and Alder Hey Children’s Hospital.


Cyclists will also travel to Whiston Hospital and back, with all riders aiming to return together.


Speaking to the Star, Glenn and Becky said: “We are so touched and blown away by the love and support everyone has shown Violet-Grace, and our whole family.


“Ride for Violet-Grace is going to be amazing and we thank all those involved in organising it because it has given us something positive to focus on as a family.


“We miss our beautiful angel deeply and the pain we feel is constant, but channelling our grief into something positive has been a massive focus for us as a family.


“We are delighted that the proceeds of this event will be split between our local hospitals, as Violet has had many dealings with both NHS Trusts, and we want to show our appreciation by giving something back.


“It is also important to us as a family to focus on the importance of organ donation. This is something we feel passionate about and urge families to have the discussion, and if they feel it is right for them, sign up to the register.


“Organ donation saves lives; as our little superhero Violet-Grace has proved.


“Please come along and support this event in Violet’s honour. It will be a great family day and a positive way to remember Violet as he beautiful little soul she is.”


The event will also feature a family fun day including bouncy castles, trampolines and face-painting for children at the Saint’s ground as a celebration of Violet-Grace’s life, as well as offering information about organ donation and how to register.


Organisers of the event include Neil Foster, Barry-Jon Rooke, Lewis Gibson and Violet’s great-uncle Colin Jeffery.


For more information search for Ride 4 Violet-Grace on Facebook and for more information on organ donation visit organdonation.nhs.uk.