CONGRATULATIONS to all those involved in the fight to save Southampton ’s children’s heart unit. It is great news that families across the south-east will continue to have close access to this vital treatment and the UK continues to have a centre of excellence providing the highest quality of care.

Having been to visit the hospital team and campaign group in March, I was touched by the personal stories and passion that drove the campaign. I hope this decision will also add strength to plans to build a much-needed children’s hospital for the south.

I would also like to recognise those campaigners and families in Leicester and Leeds and at the Royal Brompton, London, who will be losing their children’s heart units.

KEITH TAYLOR, Green MEP for South East England.