MIRACLE twin girls will be celebrating their first birthday on June 21 by taking part in Walk for Wards on the Wilton Estate.

Ruby and Evie were born on June 21 last year at Salisbury District Hospital, arriving eight weeks early.

As a result they spent the first four weeks being cared for at the hospital's Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).

Mum Jan Smart said: "My husband, Damian, and I started trying for a family about eight years ago but we had unexplained infertility.

"In 2013, I had three operations to remove fibroids from my womb and we thought that with the damage to my womb, it was highly unlikely that we would conceive.

"But then at the beginning of December 2013 I felt a bit queasy and did a pregnancy test and found out it was positive - it was just amazing.

"To be told it was never going to happen, and they had no reason for it, to then going for a scan and seeing two little heartbeats was incredible."

The twins were due to arrive on August 12 but were born eight weeks premature with Ruby weighing 3lbs 3oz and Evie, just over 2lbs 11oz.

Jan said: "Without the love, care and dedication from all the staff at NICU, our little miracles may not have been here today.

"Had I not been able to stay there with them, I wouldn't have been able to bond with them. We learnt so much which has made me a better mum.

"It's just amazing and the most wonderful feeling, they're perfect.

"The nurses and doctors were outstanding and there's no way I can thank them enough for their care.

"What makes the walk even more special is the celebration of the girls' first birthday on June 21."

The Smart family, who live in Wincanton, Somerset, will be doing the 3km route around the estate, raising money for NICU.

The event, which also involves a 10km route, is free to enter and includes a free lunch and free admission to the Wilton House grounds and the adventure playground afterwards.

All participants must raise a minimum £15 sponsorship. For more details visit starsappeal.org