A STUDENT from Bournemouth has won an award after designing a baby incubator to allow mothers to feel closer to their newborns staying in intensive care.

Olivia Gibbs, 22, won the Innovation Award sponsored by InTandem Systems Ltd, after showcasing her idea at the BA (Hons) Product design final-year degree show at Southampton Solent University.

She was one of a number of students who created products, tools and appliances for tomorrow's world shown at the event, which also included a washing station for people with disabilities and a prototype superyacht.

Olivia, a former Bournemouth School for Girls student, said: "The LETO Protect Infant Incubator is a development on current incubator systems, which allows closer bonding between mother and baby in the NICU.

"The intuitive design allows mothers to take an active role in the care of their infants while still ensuring comfortable and efficient working practices for staff."

The design was developed using the principles of parent-led care and was inspired by Canadian research. The work, carried out in Toronto, showed dramatic improvements in neonate recovery and lowered parental stress when parents are at the heart of their neonate’s care.

Andy Douglas, senior lecturer at the university's School of Art, Design and Fashion, said that seven industry-sponsored awards were given to students.

He added: "The awards this year particularly reflect the industry readiness of our graduates. We are grateful to the sponsoring companies for supporting the course, and for confirming the high quality of work that is produced by our students."