WIRRAL West MP Margaret Greenwood praised the neonatal unit at Arrowe Park Hospital following a recent visit.

Her trip to Wirral Women and Children’s Hospital was arranged by local resident, Ben Wills-Eve, who was born prematurely at the hospital 26 years ago.

Ben spent the first 11 weeks of his life there and is a tireless campaigner for Bliss, the premature and sick baby charity.

As a passionate supporter of his local neonatal unit, Ben was keen for Ms Greenwood to see the vital care it provides and find out more about the work of Bliss.

During the visit, she was introduced to several members of staff, including neonatal manager, Jacqui Morgan and Neonatal Consultant, Dr Anand Kamalanathan.

Margaret also spoke to parents of babies being treated in the neonatal unit to hear about their personal experiences and thoughts.

Margaret said afterwards: "I was really impressed with the dedication of staff at the neo-natal unit at Arrowe Park Hospital.

"The mums and dads I spoke with were extremely grateful to the staff for the hard work they do to look after their new-born babies.

"They were also well aware of the high level of medical expertise needed to help their babies grow up into strong, healthy children.

"I am grateful to Ben Wills-Eve for inviting me to visit the unit.

"Ben was himself cared for by the unit as a premature baby, and now spends much of his spare time helping to fundraise for it.

"I know that staff and supporters of Arrowe Park Hospital neo-natal unit are hoping to raise funds for the facility.

"This is a really worthwhile cause, and I know anyone wanting to get involved will be made very welcome."

Margaret also spoke to parents of babies being treated in the neonatal unit to hear about their personal experiences and thoughts.

One of the parents was Louise Edwards from Greasby, whose daughter Neve is currently being cared for by the neonatal team.

Louise said: "Without them she wouldn't be here. It's as simple as that.

"I could never give back what they have given us.

"I am so incredibly grateful and proud to have this level of care on my doorstep and lucky that I don’t have to travel too far.”

Ben said: "I felt it was important for Margaret to see a first-hand example of excellent neonatal care and hear from both clinicians and parents about the importance of sustaining it into the future.

"Her visit gave us an opportunity to explain the real benefits that better, collaborative care across different hospitals will have."