SOFT octopus toys are being used to help babies that need a little extra care at Musgrove Park Hospital

The Special Care Baby Unit at Musgrove Park Hospital is using crocheted octopuses and jellyfish to keep premature babies comfortable.

According to Mary West, of the hospital's League of Friends, these small, soft sea creatures, made entirely out of cotton, have been shown to help regulate the breathing of tiny babies and prevent them from pulling out their tubes.

Ms West said: "They have been used in hospitals all over the country for some time but Musgrove is the first hospital in the South West to introduce them.

"Already, since January when the scheme started, 16 have been used.

"I would love to hear from anyone wishing to crochet these much needed octopuses and jellyfish.

Anyone interested can send her a message on octopusforapreemie.com or on the group's Facebook page.