Staff on the  Neonatal Unit at Walsall Manor Hospital used purple decorations to mark World Prematurity Day.

They have also given gifts, some made and some donated, to babies and mums.

Sister Alex Thompson said every baby on the unit had had a book and a handmade plaque, a card and a hat while mums had a bracelet donated by the charity Noah’s star.

One mum Abbie said: “It’s nice to know you all care so much” and another mum Alisha said: “I couldn’t believe it when I opened the present bag today!”

Alex added: “It is significant as 1 in 10 babies are born prematurely worldwide so it affects many – you don’ t realise until you are affected and I know that first hand.”

A wall of hope was also created on the unit entitled #iwishidhaveknown to capture parents thoughts and feelings.

Comments included: “To be honest with how you are feeling with the professionals, don’t ever be embarrassed to say you are struggling.”