THE 1,500th baby has been born at a maternity unit.

Lara Walker was delivered at Eastbourne midwifery unit to parents Sandra and Terry Walker, weighing in at 7lbs13oz.

The unit was downgraded in 2014 when health bosses agreed to permanently switch consultant-led maternity and paediatric services from Eastbourne to Hastings.

There is now just one specialist unit with maternity services at Eastbourne District General Hospital downgraded.

However, the midwifery unit at Eastbourne still exists for non-emergency deliveries.

Mum Sandra said: “The treatment we received in the midwifery unit was absolutely fantastic.

“I didn’t realise I could have my baby at Eastbourne but was so glad I did.

“My midwife Lorna was great as were all the staff we encountered.

“Lara’s birth was a calm and brilliant experience thanks to everyone on the midwifery unit.”

Dad Terry said: “We felt we had freedom and everything was a relaxed atmosphere but knew that our midwife, Lorna, was always on hand when needed so we never felt alone.

“Sandra was in good hands and she felt reassured throughout the whole labour.”

Midwifery Unit matron Marie Foreman said she would still like to encourage more women to give birth here.

She said: “We are pleased to have our 1,500th baby in the midwifery unit in Eastbourne.

“Sandra’s experience is common to many of the women who have a very good birthing experience in the unit.

“Any woman who has a low-risk pregnancy can give birth here.

“If they would like to find out more they can speak to their midwife or call us on 01323 414911.

“We’re happy to answer any questions they may have, and can also arrange for them to come in and have a look round the unit to see what we offer.”

The midwifery unit offers a comfortable, relaxed and low-tech environment for women to give birth.