THREE babies who were born at Salisbury District Hospital yesterday have received commemorative certificates to celebrate the fact they share their birthday with the NHS.

Sunday July 5 marked the 72nd anniversary of the National Health Service as well as the day two girls and one boy came into the world in the city's hospital.

Midwife Vicki Marston said: "Every birth at Salisbury Hospital is special. The NHS has been caring for women having babies since 1948 and we have continued to provide this service throughout the current pandemic 24hrs a day, 7 days a week."

Salisbury District Hospital has sent a heartfelt thank you to everyone who came together at 5pm on Sunday to applaud all those who help keep the NHS and its staff going.

Since 1948 the NHS has provided ‘cradle to grave’ healthcare free at the point of delivery, based on need not ability to pay.

Despite 2020 being the most challenging year the NHS has ever faced, the hospital has continued to care for those who have needed it throughout the pandemic.

A spokesperson from the hospital said: "This was only possible thanks to the support the hospital has received from its community.

"From bus drivers and teachers to care staff and food retailers and, of course, the public who took action to stay at home to stop infection spreading, everyone has played their part."