York Hospital has launched an appeal to raise enough money to buy ten new cots for its maternity ward.

Fundraisers at the hospital launched a Lots Of Cots Appeal, with the aim of raising £13,550 to provide the ward with the much-needed new baby beds.

The hospital’s maternity unit has 3,400 deliveries a year and all the babies will use a cot on the unit during their stay.

The existing ones are 30 years old and not only will the new cots look fresh and new, they have the added benefit of allowing the height of the cot to be set electronically.

This is a particular benefit to women who have had a caesarean section as they will no longer need to bend down to the cot as it will be able to be adjusted to be the same height as the bed.

Liz Ross, matron of the maternity unit, said: “Over the last 30 years. we have had over 90,000 babies use our cots at York Hospital and Fulford Maternity. Three generations of our local community have used these cots and we are looking forward to new ones to replace them and meet the needs of our future generations. No matter how big or small, a donation to the Lots Of Cots Appeal really will make a significant difference.”

Lucy Watson, York Hospital’s fundraising manager, said she was eager to hear from any individuals or groups who would like to hold an event to raise money for the appeal. She was also keen to hear from companies or organisations willing to sponsor an individual cot for about £1,350 or a group of cots with the hospital providing a plaque detailing the donation.

If you would like more information about supporting the appeal, phone Lucy on 01904 721737 or email lucy.watson@york.nhs.uk