A 12-YEAR-OLD boy has been awarded near-record damages of £3.25 million for medical blunders that condemned him to a life of total dependency.

David Reynolds was born almost dead at Poole General Hospital in May 1986 after an agonising labour for his mother Susan, 44.

Christopher Purchas QC, acting for the family, told London's High Court that the second stage of labour had been 'prolonged far too long' and David's eventual delivery by forceps had been 'inappropriate'.

The court heard that David, of The Drive, Ifold, near

Billingshurst, only took his first breath 18 minutes after delivery and is 'very fortunate to be alive'.

East Dorset Health Authority admitted negligence and agreed to pay the damages - among the highest recorded - which will ensure David receives care for life.

Mrs Reynolds suffered serious internal injuries during the delivery, with long-term consequences. The health authority also agreed to pay her £27,500 damages.

Mr Purchas said: "Mr and Mrs Reynolds have devoted their lives for the past 12 years to David. It really has been a huge feat of devotion."

The court heard David, left with a form of cerebral palsy, will need constant care for life. His parents have been educating him and now hope he can go to a special school near Alton, Hants.

David's father Jeremy, 39, said: "We're obviously pleased at the outcome of our case. David is a wonderful and brave little boy."

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