BABIES will be able to take their first breath of fresh air in a new garden at Leighton Hospital.

The memorial garden has been created in memory of Doris Lord who died in February, aged 73, after many years as treasurer of the Ray of Hope Knitting Circle, which raises cash for the hospital's maternity wards through the sale of knitted baby garments.

Doris, of Crewe, was a keen knitter and cross stitcher and organised stalls in the hospital foyer where outfits are sold for babies.

Ray of Hope spokeswoman Christine Cooper, of Haslington, said: 'Doris was the driving force of the group and spent much of her spare time either raising funds or knitting and crafting for Leighton's maternity and neonatal units.

'She was nominated for a Mayor's Oscar award but unfortunately she passed away before the ceremony after a short illness.

'Apart from the Ray of Hope, Doris also raised funds for other charities including breast care, the MRI Scan-ner appeal and diabetes appeal at Leighton.

'As a special tribute to her we received a cheque in her memory from the Mayor's Charity Fund.'

The former courtyard has been transformed into a pleasant seating area with sweet smelling plants and a metal stork as its focal point.

Work was provided by volunteers from the Crewe branch of The Prince's Trust, plants were donated by Bridgemere Garden World and garden furniture from knitting circle funds.

Ray of Hope knitters stepped in to help after nursing staff had their request for support from several firms and TV gardening programmes rejected.

Mrs Cooper added: 'Doris knew about the project and we felt it would be a fitting memorial to her.' The Ray of Hope knitters meet on Tuesdays from 7pm-9pm at the Red Cross Centre, Waterloo Road, Haslington.

Last night they enjoyed a presentation on floral art and on August 10 Kate Cooper will speak on Crafts I Have Made.