Disabled man awarded £2.5million compensation from NHS after hospital birth fault

A MAN has been awarded a £2.5million NHS payout 47 years after suffering catastrophic brain damage at birth.

Peter Atherton was left with severe physical and learning difficulties after being starved of oxygen at Billinge Hospital, Wigan.

Asherton also has cerebral palsy affecting all four of his limbs, memory problems and struggles with communication.

Parents Maurice and Sheila, now in their 70s, have cared for him with little professional help, and no compensation for the errors made at his birth.

They brought a claim of medical negligence in 2008 but the case stalled when they were told that as the birth was so long ago, medical records were not available.

Then in 2014 when a doctor’s notes were found stating that Peter was born pale and asphyxiated, providing a breakthrough for the legal fight.

A financial settlement has now been approved by the High Court, with the NHS agreeing to the payout without accepting liability.

Speaking outside the court after the verdict, Peter's mother said: "Peter will be able to have a more comfortable life now."

Upon Approving the settlement, Judge Graham Wood QC said: "Where parents have dedicated themselves in the way these parents have, it is only right the court notes and commends their dedication. One hopes now, with the benefit of these funds, that professional care can be provided.

"This gives them some assurance that, should anything happen to them in future, Peter will be very well cared for.";