Tom Evans: Alfie breathing unassisted after life-support withdrawn

The father of Alfie Evans has said his son has been breathing unassisted through the night since his life support machine was switched off.

"He's still breathing now. It's come to a point when his mum's actually asleep next to him so she can go to sleep, she feels comfortable with him,'' Tom Evans told reporters outside Alder Hey hospital.

Mr Evans said it became obvious he was breathing "within a few minutes'' of life-support being withdrawn, although doctors re-intervened after he asked them to help.

Alder Hey have released a statement this morning:

"We wish to reassure patients and families attending Alder Hey hospital today that we are operating as usual and that, although you will see a police presence, the hospital is calm. Please attend your appointments as normal.

"Our Emergency Department is still open, however only attend if you have an accident or emergency that requires urgent care. If it is not an emergency, please attend your local GP or visit your walk-in centre

"Please be aware, out of respect for the privacy of Alfie and his family we will not be issuing any updates about his condition. This is our normal and agreed practice with all our patients. We would be grateful if you would respect this approach and not contact any hospital staff or call our switchboard seeking updates.

"Thank you for your continued cooperation"

A High Court judge is set to oversee a further hearing on Alfie's case in the next few hours.

Mr Justice Hayden is scheduled to hear more discussion at a hearing in Manchester.

A spokeswoman said the hearing was due to start at around 3.30pm

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