MATERNITY units in Bolton and Bury have received a slice of government cash totalling nearly £1 million.

The government hand-out announced today is being given to improve maternity care.

The Princess Anne Maternity Unit has been given £258,000 and Bury's Fairfield Hospital £700,000.

The hospitals have received the boost, to modernise services, alongside 28 other North-west maternity units. A total of £13.9 million is being spent across the North West.

Health minister Jacqui Smith said that improving maternity services is vital to give children and families the best start in life.