Surgeons warn many cleft palate cases missed at birth

Too many babies born with a cleft palate are being diagnosed late, causing unnecessary distress, the Royal College of Surgeons says.

Figures for England, Wales and Northern Ireland showed more than a quarter of cases were not picked up within the required 24 hours after birth.

Health campaigners say the problem can affect crucial early days of bonding.

Adam Brimelow reports.