I hope this settlement will allow Morrell to develop his full potential

David Lingwood, Sandwell Hospital chief executive

His father John Garner, who gave up his job as an office clerk to care for the child, said: "Morrell is a loving and fun child, but he needs constant care and supervision.

"This tragedy has had a devastating effect on every aspect of his life."

David Lingwood, chief executive at Sandwell Hospital, said: "The trust has accepted responsibility and is very sorry for the mistakes made during the birth.

"I hope this settlement will allow Morrell to develop his full potential in the years to come with the help of his loving family."

Sara Burns of solicitors Irwin Mitchell, which represents Morrell, said: "This case was not due to a lack of resources, nor scarcity of funding, it was due to signals on the monitor showing the baby was in distress not being acted upon in time.

"The hospital admitted responsibility at an early stage in the claim which was a great help to the family.

"Sadly, his injuries mean Morrell's life has been shortened, however this compensation award should ensure he can be looked after properly for the remainder of his life."