THIS month marks 30 years since the labour ward was opened at Borders General Hospital.

And to celebrate the occasion, staff welcomed a special visitor.

David Michael Szatylowicz was the first baby to be born on the ward – at 2.55pm on August 1, 1988, weighing 9lbs ½ an oz.

Earlier this month David and his mum Sonya, who live in Galashiels, revisited the hospital with a bag of surprises for the first born baby 30 years later.

Speaking about her son’s birth, Sonya said: “Being the first mum to give birth in the BGH was a very memorable experience.

"I was actually getting a tour of the labour ward on its opening day when I went into labour with my son David. I felt very special and cared for throughout my hospital stay – everything was fantastic. The staff were really attentive from the midwives to the lady who came round with the tea trolley."

Nicky Berry, head of midwifery, added: “It was lovely that the BGH’s first mum and baby visited to celebrate the 30th anniversary of our labour ward. Their generous gift was so thoughtful and special to the baby born 30 years later.

"In the past 30 years midwifery has developed in many ways however mothers and babies have always been at the centre of these developments. The team within NHS Borders maternity services are committed to delivering the highest quality of care for our women, babies and their families."

To find out more about maternity services at NHS Borders visit: www.nhsborders.scot.nhs.uk/patients-and-visitors/our-services/general-services/maternity-services/