£3.15m award for 1964 hospital error

A man left brain-damaged at birth due to a hospital error is to receive compensation 38 years after the event.

Richard Coman suffered asphyxia in the womb at birth at West Norwich Hospital in 1964, leaving him disabled.

His parents, Joan and Sydney - of Wroxham, Norfolk, both now in their 70s - only realised they could claim compensation in 1996.

On Wednesday, a High Court judge at Lewes Combined Court approved the £3.15m settlement, of which £1.2m will be invested to help care for Mr Coman for the rest of his life.

[The Comans] are very satisfied that a settlement has been achieved which will provide for Richard a healthy and stimulating environment for the rest of his life

Simon Davis,
Solicitor

In 1999, the former East Norfolk Health Authority accepted 75% responsibility for Mr Coman's injuries, and this year the parties agreed on the settlement.

The High Court heard in January that doctors had failed to induce Richard's birth after Mrs Coman was admitted to hospital in 1964.

There was then a delay before he was finally delivered by caesarean section.

Although able to walk and run, the 38-year-old still has the mind of a toddler and requires special care, his lawyers said.

Judge 'very happy'

Mr Justice Wright closed the case on Wednesday by telling the court: "I am very happy to indicate the court's approval of the draft order that has been put before me."

Solicitor Simon Davis, acting on behalf of Mr Coman, said that the parents were happy that their long wait for compensation had come to an end.

He said: "They are very satisfied that a settlement has been achieved which will provide for Richard a healthy and stimulating environment for the rest of his life."