A FEMALE healthcare worker re-arrested on Monday on suspicion of murdering eight babies at the Countess of Chester Hospital has been bailed pending further enquiries.

The woman had also been re-arrested on suspicion of the attempted murder of six babies, and was arrested in connection with the attempted murder of three additional babies.

Cheshire Constabulary confirmed on Thursday morning (June 13) the woman has been bailed pending further enquiries.

Detective Inspector Paul Hughes, who is in charge of the investigation, said: “I would like to remind people that due to the nature of this investigation it is extremely challenging and remains very much active and ongoing. There are no set timescales for this and we would ask people to bear with us whilst we continue with our enquiries.

“We remain committed to carrying out a thorough investigation as soon as possible and I want to reassure people that we are doing everything we can, as quickly as we can, to identify what has led to these baby deaths and collapses.

“We fully appreciate that it continues to have a big impact on all of the families involved and staff and patients at the hospital, as well as members of the public. All of the babies’ parents have been updated and are being supported throughout the process by specially trained officers.

“This is an extremely difficult time for all the families and it is important to remember that at the heart of this there are a number of families seeking answers as to what happened to their children. I would like to remind the media to respect the privacy of the families involved.”

Anyone with information they want to pass on to the investigation team should email the Operation Hummingbird mailbox at operation.hummingbird@cheshire.pnn.police.uk.

Information can also be passed on via the Major Incident Public Portal at

mipp.police.uk/operation/9901020317C89-PO1

or anonymously, via Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111.