LEGAL action has begun against health chiefs after a boy from East Lancashire died from a drip-feed bug at one of Britain's top children's hospitals.

Nine-year-old Tim Davies, of Olive Lane, Darwen, was one of two youngsters who died after contracting the disease at the Royal Manchester Children's Hospital.

Timothy and a five-year-old Cheshire girl, Belinda Coffey, died after bacteria from a sink trap found its way into sterile food packs.

In a rare legal action, the Department of Health is prosecuting Salford and Trafford Health Authority on two allegations surrounding the sale of medical products below the quality demanded by purchasers. The charges, under the 1968 Medicines Act, come nearly three years after the death of Tim.

Manchester Crown Court heard yesterday that Timothy and Belinda, who were both being treated for leukaemia, died in the intensive care unit in April 1994 after the bacteria found its way into their intravenous drip-feed.

The case against the authority was adjourned until April 25, when a half-day hearing will take place. The court heard that if convicted the authority faces unlimited fines. No plea was made.

Tim was struck down by leukaemia following a family holiday in Tenerife in 1993. The former Crosshill School pupil was recovering from the deadly illness when he contracted the hospital bug.

His parents, Roy and Hazel, are thought to be considering legal action against the hospital.

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