Paulton's birthing unit is set to stay open for another month as the NHS responds to the coronavirus crisis.

The move is part of efforts to reduce the risk of new mums and babies being exposed to Covid-19.

Plans for a new midwifery unit at Bath's Royal United Hospital have also been put on hold but clinical commissioning group bosses said they are expected to resume "as we move to the next phase of our Covid response".

It had been forecast to open in 2022/23.

Paulton's birthing unit is currently staffed overnight but is set to move to an "open on demand" system so staff can be redeployed to where they are most needed, such as supporting home births.

There were only four births in Paulton in March, while the number of people wanting to give birth at home has doubled.

Births were due to cease in Paulton on May 4 but that has now been pushed back to June 1.

The postnatal community beds will close on the same date.

The decision is due to be signed off at a Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire CCG meeting on April 30.

The closure of Paulton's birthing unit has proved controversial, with campaigners families will be left with far less choice.

CCG governing body members have been warned that the delay may be seen as a chance to revisit the decision, and that families may be left confused about where they can access support. It will spread the message about what is planned.

Paulton's minor injuries unit has also closed temporarily so the staff can provide support elsewhere.