Gemma Atkinson shares 'spooky' family story that gives her comfort over her dad's death

Gemma Atkinson has shared what she says is a 'spooky' yet 'wonderful' story as she spent some of her weekend supporting a cause close to her heart. Following an appearance at the Manchester Wellbeing Festival, the Bury-born star got dressed up to host a charity ball.

She and her Hits Radio co-host Mike Toolan acted as hosts for the evening which is organized every year by the Rigby family in aid of the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital. Gemma, 36, was supported at the event by her childhood friends as guests tried to raise as much money as possible for the worthy cause.

Taking to Instagram after the charity event, Gemma shared the family's story alongside a series of pictures. "An honour to host such a wonderful night for the @rmchcharity. This event is put on yearly by The Rigby family. Their story is remarkable," the former Emmerdale and Hollyoaks star shared with her millions of followers.

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Detailing the inspirational story, she said: "Out for a walk on Easter Sunday 2014 when their daughter Danielle was hit by a car that mounted the pavement. She was 15. She suffered Severe head trauma and bleeds on her brain & needed help urgently. Sarah, Danielle’s mum performed CPR on her until help arrived. Being a mum myself I cannot begin to imagine how that felt for her."

Gemma explained Danielle's journey to the hospital where she received months of care and treatment. Luckily, she recovered but had to learn how to walk, talk and eat again. But, in a positive twist, Gemma revealed that Danielle is now a nurse at the very hospital that helped save her.

"Her family decided to fundraise so that there could be a helipad at the