Customers of a Romford tattoo shop braved the needle to raise money for charity after the shop manager’s baby was stillborn.
Cult Classic Tattoo, in North Street, donated a day’s takings to stillbirth charity Sands.
The child of manager Ian Stokes, 32, of Romford, and his wife Ruth was stillborn in May.
The baby who they named Charlie, developed in the womb without any kidneys.
Ian and his wife sought the help of Sands, which provides support to parents.
The couple wanted to give something back to the charity with the help of shop owner Aaron Hewitt.
The shop raised £7,000 tattooing more than 60 people last week.
Ian said: “It went really well, It’s amazing how many people turned up. When we counted it all up we were shocked at the amount we raised.”
The shop, which sought help from other local tattoo parlours to cope with the demand, offered designs ranging from £50 to a £100.
“People came in and donated without getting a tattoo. It was really successful and we want to do it next year for another charity.”
He said of Sands: “They’ve been amazing, it means you don’t have to carry the burden on your own.”
The shop also sold books and paintings to reach a grand total of £7,106.
Ian said: “I want to thank everyone that came down and made it a really special day.”
Read more:
Romford tattoo shop to donate takings to stillbirth charity Sands
Havering tattooist: people ‘risking their lives’ with DIY kits
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