Moray newborn happiness as C-sections return to Dr Gray’s Hospital in Elgin

Three babies have been born this week following the return of Caesarean sections to Dr Gray’s Hospital in Elgin.

Leading the way and weighing in at 8lb 7oz was Lucas – the first child of Jacqui Law and Brian Laird from Keith. Many more families in Moray will now have the option of a C-section at the hospital for the first time since 2018.

Dr Mandy Hunter, a consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist at Dr Gray’s, said: “Our whole team are really pleased to be able to offer elective Caesarean births again. It’s a big step towards restoration of a full obstetric service.

“Any expectant mums who have questions about what this means for their individual circumstances should have a chat with their midwife or consultant in the first instance to work out their best options together.”

In addition to baby Lucas, two little girls were also delivered by C-sections this week at Dr Gray’s.

Commenting on her experience, new mum Jacqui said: “It was all very relaxed and everyone took very good care of me.

“One of the nurses who works in theatre is one of my best friends. Her being there helped make the experience really happy and positive."

Jane Gill is programme director for the NHS Grampian and NHS Highland maternity collaborative which is overseeing the restoration.

She said: “We’re just tickled pink for the families who have benefitted from the new service this week.

“All arrivals went smoothly thanks to the dedication, exemplary care and expertise of our team who have been working closely with colleagues across Moray, Inverness and Aberdeen to strengthen maternity services in Elgin for some time.”

For pregnant women requiring more complex care, Aberdeen will remain the recommended option for birth, as has always been the case.

Louise Pearson, acting hospital general manager for Dr Gray’s, added: “This milestone doesn’t just represent a new phase for maternity services – it’s a major step forward for Dr Gray’s Hospital and Moray as a whole.

“Our priority is making sure families in Moray feel informed, safe, and supported.”

The team is now focusing on the work required to bring about the gradual reintroduction of a fully modernised, consultant-led maternity service at Dr Gray’s Hospital – due to be delivered by the end of 2026.

The latest phase of Moray's dedicated ‘Wish You Worked Here’ recruitment campaign was launched at the end of March, and drew tens of thousands of views online.

This is focusing on attracting obstetricians, anaesthetists, paediatricians, and theatre staff.