BRITISH Army doctor Major Richard Gale turned emergency midwife - in the middle of the central American jungle.

Major Gale, from Farnworth, and helicopter pilot Sergeant Peter Rodgers were heading for hospital with a pregnant woman when they had to land and deliver the baby.

Not only did Major Gale have to perform a difficult delivery, because the baby was in a breach position, but he had to keep an eye on his pilot fearing he might faint.

The pair were called into action after a phone call from a clinic doctor in Independence, Belize, who wanted 34-year-old Mrs Josephine August taken to hospital in Belize City for the delivery of her second twin.

But the baby was not going to wait and on the way to the hospital the soldiers had to take emergency action.

Sgt Rodgers landed the Gazelle helicopter in a clearing in the jungle and the pair delivered a healthy 7lb 9oz boy in the helicopter.

It was the first time Sgt Rodgers had ever witnessed a birth and he had the task of holding the baby while the Major cut the umbilical cord.

Mrs August was so delighted by the actions of the soldiers she named the baby Richard Peter.

During the delivery, Major Gale said he was concerned about the new baby but had to keep a close eye on Sgt Rodgers who, he feared, could become too emotionally involved and might collapse.

The Army has a training base in Belize where soldiers can prepare for any jungle warfare they might have to encounter during their service.

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