MORE than 120 people gathered to celebrate a hospital's birthday bash.

Celebrations took place in Sherborne as mothers and their babies born at Yeatman Hospital met to recognise the work of the incredible staff.

The event, arranged by the Friends of the Yeatman Hospital, became a real family affair with first and second generations joining in the festivities.

Former nurse, Jean Luffman, aged 92, was the oldest party-goer. She attended with her daughter who was born there. Guests also included fellow Yeatman baby, Sherborne Mayor, Cllr Jon Andrews.

Although the hospital was founded in 1886, it is unknown when the first baby was born, but it is thought that the last was 1986 or 1987.

Birthday girl, Peggy Poole, celebrated her 80th birthday at the event.

Mrs Poole was joined by her sister and her two daughters who were also born at the hospital. The youngest Yeatman baby present was Sacha Pascal, born in 1986.

In his welcoming remarks, David Hayes, Chairman of the Friends of Yeatman said: "As Yeatman babies here, you have returned to your place of origin, hopefully you are enjoying your life’s journey.

"Being the mother of a Yeatman babe, you would not have been able to enjoy those facets of both birth and living a full life without the professional expertise and dedication of our medical profession."

He added: "On behalf of my colleagues at the Friends of the Yeatman, I am pleased to say we are proud of history of excellent clinical care provided by the doctors and nursing staff at the Yeatman, who for you present provided the most timely, essential clinical care for a successful delivery.

"Thank you to Waitrose and Oxford’s Bakery whose support in providing the wines and birthday cakes for tonight’s celebration."