The Department of Health and Social Care has apologised to the family of a little boy who died after shortcomings at Noble's Hospital.

It says it accepts 'in its entirety' the comments and recommendations made by Coroner of Inquests John Needham following the inquest of nine-month old Max Colley.

Health and Social Care Minister David Ashford says: "A finding of neglect by the Coroner is a matter of serious concern to me and senior colleagues in the Department and at Noble's Hospital.

"We recognise that there have been failings, at both individual and organisational level, and have acted and will act to rectify them.

"We have all learned from this tragic episode, in regard to the safe management of maternity services and the work processes of healthcare staff."

The department says all recommendations requiring action will be implemented in full.