St Mary's Birth Centre in Leicestershire is led by midwives and specialises in dealing with uncomplicated births.

The post-natal unit at the site in Melton Mowbray survived attempts in the late 1980s to shut it, but health chiefs have now confirmed its closure.

It means mothers will go home shortly after giving birth and will not receive post-natal advice or support.

The University Hospitals of Leicestershire stressed that the hospital and birthing centre were not at risk.

The post-natal ward is expected to shut in the next few months.