A DISABLED York woman has received a multi-million pound payout after health chiefs admitted medical negligence during her birth at a city hospital.

Donna Owen, 23, of Walker Drive, Foxwood, suffered brain damage during her delivery at the former Fulford Maternity Hospital.

It is believed she has received in the region of £3 million, which has been put into trust to pay for specialist equipment and nursing support.

Yesterday, the High Court in Leeds awarded the money in a private hearing between the family and North Yorkshire Health Authority.

Donna suffers severe physical handicap as a result of cerebral palsy - and the award is the conclusion of a five-year battle over what was described in court as a "cock-up" at her birth.

Speaking for the family, solicitor Jane Radcliffe said: "This has been a long time coming, and Donna's future will now be provided for. The money is subject to the protection of the court.

"It's not like she's suddenly a millionaire. The family don't have access to the money."

Before going into private session the court heard how Donna's mother, Susan, who died of cancer earlier this year, was told in 1988 by a paediatrician that "there was a cock-up" at the birth and was advised to see a solicitor.

Barrister Robert Francis, for the family, said there was a delay in delivering Donna and misjudgement of the use of forceps - they were attached for too long.

He described Donna as an "extraordinary woman who gains a lot out of life".

The money will probably go towards items including a new home with disabled access, and loss of earnings for her father Stuart, who looks after Donna.

A health authority spokesman said: "We are pleased for Donna and her family that an acceptable settlement has now been achieved to this distressing case."

Donna excelled at boccia - a ball-tossing game which has a therapeutic value.

Updated: 11:00 Tuesday, October 30, 2001