THE parents of Violet-Grace Youens have described how they shared their daughter’s story far and wide after being given the honour of attending Windsor for the royal wedding.


Four-year-old Violet-Grace died in March last year after she was struck in a hit-and-run.


Glenn and Becky Youens, from Eccleston, have worked tirelessly since her death, spreading awareness of organ donation and campaigning for road safety. 


Violet saved two lives after her pancreas and kidneys were donated. 
The couple, who have a two-year-old son Oliver, were recognised for their campaigning by being invited to the castle grounds for the wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.


St Helens Council nominated Becky and Glenn for the honour and they joined 1,200 people who were there because of contributions to their communities. 


Glenn, 31, said: “We got to tell the story of our own little princess and how she became a real life superhero.


“It was a privilege to be there. We were able to share Violet’s story to so many to ensure that her name will live on. And people wanted to hear that story too.


“I went along wearing my Violet-Grace Gift and Isabella Rose t-shirt and that drew interest. We chatted to one couple from Northern Ireland and the next day they had sponsored us £500. We also spoke to an American lady who benefited from organ donation and she stressed to us how important it is.”


He added: “Violet loved princesses like most little girls and we know that she was with us in spirit – we always called her our beautiful little princess. We feel really honoured. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but it was also bittersweet. We would have loved not to be in a position to be invited and have our Violet-Grace at home.


“We were invited, but we must recognise the fantastic work by everyone who has helped us.”


Glenn and Becky set up a charity called Violet-Grace’s Gift in memory of their ‘superhero’ daughter and are raising funds through taking on cycling and running challenges, which will support bereaved parents.
They have joined forces with the Isabella Rose Foundation, set up by Amanda and Geoff Parr whose daughter was born stillborn in 2011. 


To donate to Glenn and others raising funds for Violet-Grace’s Gift visit bit.ly/2B27nNX and visit @violetgrace.gift on Facebook.