THE MP for Eddisbury has attended the opening of a new bereavement and grief counselling centre at Alder Hey Children's Hospital.

Antoinette Sandbach MP was delighted to attend the special event at Alder Hey and added her thanks to the families and donors who made the project possible.

Almost £2 million has been raised towards the new centre which is set to be the first of its kind in the country when it officially opens next year.

The new Alder Centre will be the first purpose-built building within the UK to house counselling services for all those affected by the loss of a child.

Building is underway thanks to the support of families, local community and corporate supporters including a £1.4 million donation from the LIBOR fund which Antoinette Sandbach MP helped to secure from the former Chancellor, Philip Hammond.

“I supported the new counselling service at Alder Hey because I’m a parent who lost a child and received support from here," said Ms Sandbach.

"I really understand how important it is that parents get the professional support and help that they need. The Alder Centre is the perfect place for that.

"I was so pleased to be at the event and extend my thanks to all the donors for sharing their experiences of loss and supporting this vital project.”

Meanwhile Graham Morris, chairman of Alder Hey Children’s Charity added: “As new chairman of this remarkable charity I have been inspired by the stories of the many families, donors and supporters for whom the Alder Centre has provided vital support.

"It’s an honour for the charity to play such a key part in creating something incredibly special and unique and which will make such a difference to so many families.

"We are extremely grateful to all those who supported us to deliver an Alder Centre that is a ‘place like no other’ here at Alder Hey.”