Expectant mums who fear there could be a problem with their baby will now be closer to vital medical equipment.A new machine, which makes a detailed recording of an unborn child's heartbeat from the age of 32 weeks, was presented to Dereham Hospital on Tuesday.

Expectant mums who fear there could be a problem with their baby will now be closer to vital medical equipment.

A new machine, which makes a detailed recording of an unborn child's heartbeat from the age of 32 weeks, was presented to Dereham Hospital on Tuesday.

The donation of the £4,500 piece of equipment means that soon to be mums from the area who are worried about their baby will not have to travel to Norwich.

Eve Brady, team leader of the Pedders Team of midwives, said: "This is a vital piece of equipment. It is a welcome addition to the services we provide.

"It means if a mum is concerned she can ring the number then we can arrange for her to come and see us.

"When a mum is worried about her baby she wants to know as soon as possible what is going on.

"Before this she would have had to go to the delivery unit in Norwich. This is more convenient and less stressful."

And trying out the machinery for the first time was Nicky Baker, 33, who said: "Interaction with what's going in on there is always nice.

"I've been very lucky and haven't had a problem. But it's very reassuring to know it's here."

Friends of Dereham Hospital, who gave £3,000 towards the purchase, handed over the cardiotocograph to Peddars Team of midwives.

The remaining money came from a variety of groups including; Watton Rotary Club, Dereham Lions Club, Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital Endowment Fund, Hingham Surgery, and from fundraising activities such as raffles and car boot

sales organised by the midwives.