A TEENAGER who was left with catastrophic brain damage when he was starved of oxygen at birth has won damages of more than £1 million. Raymond Spencer, who is now 19, was born just two minutes after his twin sister, Suzanne, who was not injured in the tragedy. Raymond, of Blenheim Road, Breightmet, weighed less than 5lbs when he was born and was so severely damaged that by the time he was 17 he still only weighed just over two stone.

"But he has now had an operation which allows him to be fed orally and he has thrived in relevant terms and now tops five stones," said his counsel Mark Turner QC, at the High Court in Manchester.

Mr Justice Poole then approved an out-of-court settlement of £1.15M for Raymond who cannot speak and is being looked after by his devoted parents. And the judge joined forced with Mr Turner in paying tribute the the dedication shown to Raymond by his parents, Raymond and June Spencer.

"They will continue to show the same remarkable dedication as long as they are physically able to do so," said Mr Turner.

"They wish to provide the care for their son, but it is likely they will not be able to continue with the same level for the rest of his life."

Mr Justice Poole said he had no hesitation in approving the damages award. "I also express the court's admiration for the dedication shown to Raymond by his parents over many years. I extend the court's warmest good wishes both to their future and that of Raymond."

Raymond was left with cerebral palsy and virtually no movement following the tragedy at Bolton General Hospital.

It is now planned for him to spend two days a week in a day centre.?

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