AIREDALE Hospital is staging its first-ever maternity open day.

The event – at the Steeton hospital’s education centre on Saturday, February 17, from 10am to 4pm – will give visitors the chance to look round the maternity facilities and chat to midwives.

Other attractions will include information stalls, a raffle, tombola and face painting.

Midwife Gemma Sayer, a co-organiser of the event, said: “We’re taking this opportunity to celebrate the work that goes on in all of our maternity services.

“We’ve not put on an event like this before and we are really excited to welcome people in.

“Whether you’ve had a baby at Airedale in the past, are currently pregnant or just generally interested in the maternity services we offer, anyone is more than welcome to come along.”

Fiona McFadyen, the labour ward manager, said the event was family orientated.

“A lot of hard work has gone into planning what will be a fantastic event,” she added.

“We’re really proud of working at Airedale and would like to show everyone what we do.

“There will be games and face painting for children and lots of useful information for parents.

“The raffle has some fantastic prizes – local companies have been very generous. All money raised will go towards new equipment for maternity services.”

Free parking will be available, in the building 18 car park.