Warrington Hospital's neonatal unit cares for about 250 critically ill babies a year and, last Saturday, staff had a fun day at Sycamore Lane County Primary School, in Great Sankey, for patients and parents who have benefited from care at the unit provides.
Families from Warrington, Widnes, Runcorn and Leigh, whose babies are currently at the unit or were treated there in the past, attended, raising large amounts of money for the department.
Attractions included children's entertainer Ian Zippy Lees, a bouncy castle, trampoline, karaoke and face painting.
A partner of one of the unit's nurses also volunteered to be 'gunged' in aid of the cause. Included in the raffle that was held on the day was a signed Manchester United football.
Sister Debbie Yates said: "This event is always a fun day for all and everyone is welcome. The work the unit does is very important and the day is a welcome opportunity for staff to see how the babies we looked after are doing."
One of babies whose life was saved by the unit is Hilary and Alan Leech's daughter, Rebecca.
She spent nine weeks in the neonatal unit because she was born 10 weeks premature and weighed just 2lbs 6oz.
Now, three-and-a-half years later, Rebecca is thriving.
Mrs Leech said: "All the staff at the unit were wonderfully supportive and are very special people.
"Our daughter is fine now and it's in no small part due to the staff, who helped give her the best possible start in life."
Hilary has since joined the unit's voluntary support group, which is made up of some of the treated children's parents.
