A MUM who gave birth to three premature babies is raising money for the hospital where they were born.

Emma McMullen, whose three children were all born prematurely between 34 and 35 weeks, has organised a fundraising night for Wigan, Wrightington and Leigh's Hospital charity The Three Wishes.

The 34-year-old, from Leigh, wants to raise money to provide the specialist baby care unit with heating cots and nursing chairs.

Her three children Tia Jayne, aged 10, Gracie, aged eight and Heidi-Kate, aged two, all spent time in the unit.

Nursery nurse Miss McMullen said: "I feel like there is a negative stigma surrounding the NHS at the moment which means that specialist areas don't get enough recognition for the work they do. This is just my way of saying thank you to the nurses for looking after our tiny babies.

"The help and encouragement that they give to parents is amazing. I want to be able to raise as much as I can for them."

Miss McMullen said: "I was fortunate enough with my last child to have the neo natal home come out to the house.

"It was reassuring for me to know I had that support, especially because she was so small.

"I am aware that there are some babies that were a lot more ill and had been in a special care unit longer but it just opens your eyes to the work that they do to help the babies there."

A fundraising night is being held at The 180 Club in Railway Road on September 5 from 7.30pm until 1am.

On the evening, singing group Soul Temptation will be performing along with music from DJ Scots Dave.

A raffle will also be held and refreshments including pasties and sandwiches will be available. Tickets are £7 and can be bought through Emma on 07593585235.