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In the running to keep unit open

Emilene White
3/ 5/2006

LINDA Barker is so grateful to Tameside's maternity unit she's putting her best foot forward to raise them some cash.

And hubby Paul, 30, has wheeled in around £200 after cycling the Manchester to Blackpool bike race, which he is entering again this year for the same cause.

The couple, of Sidmouth Street, Audenshaw became proud parents 11 months ago to baby Harrison.

But at 11 weeks premature, and weighing in at only 2lb 15oz, he needed weeks of care and attention, as well as three blood transfusions.

On 21 May, the 38-year-old mum will run the 10km Great Manchester Run and hopes to raise around £500 to help other parents in the same situation.

"My experience was great, they really looked after me," she said.

"I was in for eight weeks. When I was allowed home it was a bit traumatic to go without my baby. I went twice a day for eight weeks to see him.

"That's the big thing about closing the unit - all you want to do is spend time with your baby and it would make it so hard if it was further away.

"It was hard enough being away from him, but at least I knew he was only a short journey away and I could see him whenever I wanted."