Patients transferred to Bassetlaw Hospital after major water leak at Women’s and Children’s Hospital in Doncaster

Officials at the DRI said some services have today been restored, but damage appeared to be ‘quite extensive’ in in affected areas and repairs will begin as soon as possible.

Seven fire engines were seen outside the hospital last night after the emergency evacuation of the building. No fire was found, but a large water leak was discovered.

Hospital bosses last night said admissions were diverted to Bassetlaw Hospital as well as nearby providers.

In an update today, David Purdue, chief nurse at Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals, said: “At around 5.30pm on Tuesday 27 April, a large water leak occurred within the Women’s and Children’s Hospital at Doncaster Royal Infirmary, unfortunately making contact with some electrical mains. Thankfully, nobody was harmed, and we began to evacuate the building.

“Following established contingency plans, 67 patients were safely and securely relocated to neighbouring wards on site, whilst some of our babies receiving care within the Neonatal Unit were escorted via a specialist service to other hospitals within the region.

“Since this time, power has been safely restored to some sections of the building, and a number of services returned.

“While a full investigation will take place, the damage looks to be quite extensive in the affected areas, and we will begin repair works as soon as possible.

"We ask patients to check our website www.dbth.nhs.uk for further updates, as well as any changes to affected appointments and clinics in the coming days.

“Finally, I would like to share my thanks with colleagues who reacted calmly, decisively, and professionally this evening – typifying the very best of the NHS.”

Here is what it means for patients:

All scanning appointments will go ahead as normal,

Antenatal appointments will go ahead as normal.

All routine inpatient and day case procedures cancelled today, however endoscopy, urgent and cancer work will continue,.

Emergency Departments are operating as normal – if you need urgent and emergency care please attend.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Sam Jackson, editor.