TODAY marks the first anniversary of the death of Violet-Grace Youens whose life was cut short when she was struck in a hit-and-run.

The death of the four-year-old girl shook the entire community last year, and saw an outpouring of love and support for her parents Glenn and Becky Youens from Eccleston.

Violet-Grace was being carried by her grandmother Angela French when a speeding car, travelling in excess of 80mph, hit them on Prescot Road, St Helens on Friday, March 24.

The little girl died the next day, Saturday, March 25 in her parents’ arms.

But Violet’s story did not end there – the “little superhero” went on to save two lives by becoming an organ donor.

Since the tragedy, her family has been dedicated to encouraging others to think about organ donation in her memory – which resulted in 400 more people signing the organ donation register in St Helens in 2017 compared to the previous year.

They have also held fundraising events – such as the Ride 4 Violet-Grace – to promote organ donation.

And there have been campaigns for greater road safety and stronger punishments for drivers who kill.

To mark the anniversary, St Helens will show support to the family by lighting the Steve Prescott Bridge violet on Sunday, March 25.

Glenn, 30, said: “This is a very difficult time of year for us, as it reminds us nearly one year has passed since we held our beautiful Violet-Grace.

“Our lives have been torn apart, and that piece of our hearts has been taken away.

“We thank all those who remember Violet, as we are so scared she will be forgotten.

“We must carry on her legacy, so she can continue to help others, and keep her loving memory alive.”

The second annual Ride 4 Violet-Grace event will take place on Sunday, July 22.

For more visit @violetgrace.gift on Facebook. To sign up to the organ donor register visit organdonation.nhs.uk