A CREWE midwife has been awarded Emma’s Diary Mums’ Midwife of the Year 2017 for the north of England.

Linda Gibbs, who works at Hungerford Road Medical Centre, was nominated by mum Jennifer Stevenson.

The award is one of the Royal College of Midwives (RCM) Annual Midwifery Awards, recognising the ‘remarkable’ work done by midwives across the country.

Emma’s Diary Mums’ Midwife of the Year Award gives mums the chance to express their own gratitude and pay tribute to a midwife who helped them.

Jennifer, who nominated Linda for the award, said: “From the very beginning Linda has been there for me. Her big friendly smile putting me at ease every time we met, sharing her knowledge to help comfort and encourage me.

“Due to slow growth, the baby had to be induced at 38 weeks and Linda stepped in to be my rock, explaining everything so I felt in control and knew what to expect. She took the time to provide a one-to-one visit to the maternity unit in preparation for labour - for someone suffering with Asperger’s this made the experience more bearable.

“She was also there towards the end of my delivery giving me the final encouragement to push Olivia into the world.

She continues: “Linda’s not just been my midwife but also my friend, helping me to grow as a person. Without her support, I really don’t think I would have the bond that I have with Olivia now.”

On winning the award Linda said: “I was absolutely speechless when I found out I’d won this award. Jennifer had already made me a fantastic cake and said such lovely words but this was totally out the blue.”