Babies are regularly found abandoned at hospitals and police stations, with some even left to die on rubbish tips and railway lines.

There are a host of reasons why mothers feel they can’t look after them – they may be too poor to cope, HIV positive or the tots might be orphans.

Now, one Peterborough woman moved by a 10-month stint at a baby rescue centre has set up her own charity, the Mercy Rescue Trust, to help fund the centre which gives children a safe haven.

Naomi Keating (25), of Rothbart, Hampton, decided to give up her job at a shop on the spur of the moment after hearing about their plight.

For three months, she managed Huruma (Swahili for compassion) House in Kitale, western Kenya, which rescues abandoned babies and nurtures them in a family environment.

Despite the horrifying cases and basic conditions, Naomi knew she wanted to make it her mission to save as many babies in distress as she could.

So, after a flying visit to see family, she hopped on a plane and stayed out there for almost a year.

She has just returned, but is due back in Kenya in two weeks.

Naomi said: “Before, I didn’t think about anyone but myself. But after hearing about these babies, I just went into work one day and said: ‘I’m going to Africa.’

“These kids call me mum, and looking at their smiling faces is amazing. I just fell in love with them and knew I would be there permanently.”

Despite rescuing babies from buses and railway lines, the former pupil of Sir Harry Smith Community College in Whittlesey said she empathised with mothers who felt forced to take such extreme measures.

“It’s a desperate situation. If the mother’s family found out about the child, they would be in serious trouble. And in some cases, if they have a baby, they can’t find work and have to live in poverty.”

The centre is currently home to nine babies, aged between three months and 28 months, and a team of staff help Naomi care for them.

But they desperately need cash to provide clothes, medical supplies and food. Sponsoring a child for £30 a month is one option, and people can also donate.

nCall treasurer Graeme Dale on 01993 200343, e-mail info@mercy rescue.org or visit www.mercy rescue.org

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