THE first baby born at Bournemouth Hospital’s new birthing centre has given his name to the room where he came into the world.

Oliver Mark Nigel Newbery made his appearance on Saturday, November 29 at 8.36pm in Birthing Room one – just a day after the midwifery team moved into the new facility.

But, when he and his proud first-time parents, Nicola and Martin Newbery from Moordown, brought him back for a visit, they returned to ‘Oliver’s Room’ as it will now be known.

Nicola, 27, a mortgage advisor, told the Echo: “We are so proud – it’s an honour. And all our family and friends were so excited to hear it. It’s very special.”

Oliver was born two weeks’ early weighing seven pounds, added Nicola.

“It was surprisingly relaxing considering the circumstances,” she said.

“In a way it’s like a home from home here almost. It’s a relaxed environment, a calming environment.

“And the midwives were so excited about it being the first birth here – it’s their job, but they are so passionate about it. It felt like such a personal experience.”

Martin, 34, a builder, who was able to stay the night with his wife and new son as each of the two birthing rooms is equipped with a pull-down bed, added: “We were looking for something more personal, and less clinical. This place doesn’t feel like a hospital.”

Head of Midwifery Pauline Hawkes said: “We were absolutely delighted when Nicola gave birth to Oliver at the Birth Centre. It was so special because not only was Oliver the first baby to be born in the new unit, he is also Nicola and Martin’s first baby.

“In addition, his birth was completely natural, which is something we passionately believe in whenever it is safe and appropriate for mother and baby.

“To celebrate the memorable occasion, we have named the birthing suite the ‘Oliver Room’.”