THE North-East's first hospice for babies and young children was opened by Conservative MP Ann Widdecombe yesterday.

Zoe's Place, the former Convent of Mercy building, in Normanby High Street, near Middlesbrough, provides care for children with health problems up to the age of five, and gives parents a much-needed break.

It is one of only a small number in the country and follows the opening of Zoe's Place in Liverpool, ten years ago.

The unit, which can cater for four babies or young children at any one time, is funded by donations from local people and businesses.

Senior nurse for Zoe's Place Sue Bareham said: "It is a beautiful building, with lovely gardens. It is like a home from home. Parents can refer their children themselves and do not have to go through social services."

The hospice also provides advice and support to parents who have lost a child and bosses were pleased that Ms Widdecombe chose to open the centre. General manager Mark Guidery said: "Ann Widdecombe has done a lot of work for many hospices, in particular Zoe's Place, and we were delighted to have her along on the day.

"I thought opening a hospice was all about millionaires and big businesses, but I can tell everyone it isn't.

"It's about local people doing amazing things and that's what makes any good cause like Zoe's Place work. The people of the region have been magnificent, without them it wouldn't be here."

The care offered to the families will be tailored to provide the best environment for babies and small children with life-threatening or limiting illnesses.

The project, which was awarded National Lottery funding last year, is expected to cost about £400,000 a year to run.

Mr Guidery said: "It was nice to able to thank everyone who has helped get Zoe's Place up and running. It was a pleasure for me to be able to stand up in front of 300 people and look around and recognise what they have done and how they have all helped to raise money for the unit."