A YOUNGSTER who suffered brain damage at birth because of hospital errors has been awarded nearly £10m for his lifelong care.

Kit van Berckel, from Harrogate, was born in May 2008 after his mother Joanna was admitted to Harrogate District Hospital ten days after her due date.

But medical staff did not spot that Kit was in distress for a prolonged period during delivery and he was born with no heartbeat and needed resuscitating.

He suffered a significant brain injury and soon after his birth was diagnosed with dyskinetic cerebral palsy.

Kit’s mother, Joanna said: "We were devastated and heartbroken when we found out that Kit’s condition could have been avoided if mistakes had not been made during his delivery.

“There needs to be a fundamental overhaul of accountability and management procedures to minimise the opportunity of negligence caused by medical staff.

"Kit is a bright, cheerful and lively boy who continues to amaze us with his energy, positive attitude and determination."

The family are building a specially-designed home to help their son be independent, and Kit goes to a mainstream school in the town.

The youngster is unable to sit without aid, has no independent mobility and cannot feed himself or speak.

Harrogate Hospital NHS Foundation Trust admitted full liability, and a High Court judge in Leeds approved a settlement of £9.872m to provide lifelong care and rehabilitation.