PEOPLE can still take their bases to bat away meningitis at a rounders tournament and family fun day in Berkeley to remember a toddler from the town who died of the disease.

Sam Virgo, of Berkeley, battled meningitis aged just two in 2008.

Ever since his family and friends have organised the annual sporty fundraiser and summer fair at Berkeley Football Field in aid of Meningitis Now.

The fifth event, arranged by Lisa Higgins, Corinne Regan and a committee, is on Saturday, July 19, from 10am to 11pm.

It includes the mixed rounders competition, a bar, barbecue, free bouncy castles, stalls, children’s craft tent and live evening bands.

Sam’s mum Sue, 44, said: “The day has something for everyone – active people can enter the rounders competition, but those wishing to relax can enjoy the stalls, a drink and the barbecue.

“It’s the perfect chance to unite people to remember Sam as well as raise vital funds and awareness to beat the disease that swiftly took him.

“We hope lots of people join us because we don’t want anyone else to feel the pain of losing a loved one to meningitis.”

Meningitis Now founder Steve Dayman MBE, of Alveston, who launched the UK’s meningitis movement after losing his baby Spencer to the disease in 1982, thanked the family and their friends for their efforts.

“Without people like them, we couldn’t continue our lifesaving work to fund pioneering preventative research, raise awareness and support survivors and their families,” he said.

“We wish everyone the best for the day.”

To sign up a team of nine, or for more information, call Lisa on 07885 881145 or Corrine on 07841 344001.

To donate, visit www.meningitisnowforeverfunds.tributefunds.com/SamVirgo