Neonatal babies transferred to other hospitals by ambulance after large water leak at Doncaster Royal Infirmary

The leak broke out at around 5.30pm yesterday (Apr 27) at the Women's and Children's Hospital on the site. It led to some 67 patients being relocated to other wards, while some neonatal patients were taken to other hospitals.

Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals said all scanning and antenatal appointments, plus any endoscopy, cancer or urgent work, will go ahead as normal today (Apr 28).

The A&E is also operating as normal, but routine inpatients and day case procedures will be cancelled.

David Purdue, chief nurse at Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals, said: “At around 5.30pm on Tuesday, April 27, a large water leak occurred within the Women’s and Children’s Hospital at Doncaster Royal Infirmary unfortunately making contact with some electrical mains. Thankfully, nobody was harmed, and we began to evacuate the building.

“Following established contingency plans, 67 patients were safely and securely relocated to neighbouring wards on site, whilst some of those receiving care within our Neonatal Unit were escorted via a specialist service to other hospitals within the region.

“Since this time, power has been safely restored to some sections of the building, and a number of services returned. While a full investigation will take place, the damage looks to be quite extensive in the affected areas, and we will begin repair works as soon as possible. We ask patients to check our website for further updates, as well as any changes to affected appointments and clinics in the coming days.

“Finally, I would like to share my thanks with colleagues who reacted calmly, decisively, and professionally this evening – typifying the very best of the NHS.”