A MUM-OF-THREE whose baby girl died shortly after her birth has likened the area's new maternity services to a phoenix rising from the ashes.

Lesley Bennett, 45, was overcome with emotion as she spoke openly about Elleanor's death at Furness General Hospital in 2004.

She has played a vital role in the development of the South Lakes Birthing Centre, drawing on her own experiences to help ensure expectant mothers are spared the heartache she suffered.

The Millom born mother who lives in Dalton was determined to secure a bereavement suite, something which now lies at the heart of the unit.

She said: "It's been very emotional for me.

Exclusive look at the £12m South Lakes Birth centre at Furness General Hospital

"The suite is in the centre of the unit so you can feel love all around you, it's in the perfect place."

Mrs Bennett was given a special tour by UHMBT staff and said the unit "took her breath away."

Speaking about the loss of her baby she said: "We don't get the sleepless nights, the first steps or the first day of school - you grieve for what you can't have and you grive for those moments which were taken away from you.

"When it happens to you, you feel like you're the only person in the world who has gone though it.

Bereaved Barrow mum to raise money for hospital

"One friend with a baby told me whenever I was ready for a cuddle I could come over, she said 'you can have cuddles for as long as you want and whenever you want them', she didn't judge me, she just knew what I needed and that's what this suite and this unit is all about.

"It shows what the NHS can do, from such a tragedy to such a positive thing- they don't rest on their laurels, they see what can they do to move it forwards."