A TEENAGER has been awarded an out of court settlement of £2.2 million after a hospital blunder left her partially paralysed.

Amy Pawley, 14, of High Wycombe, suffered a brain tumour in 1993, which went undiagnosed by Wycombe Hospital for seven months and left her paralysed down her left side. As a result Amy's left hand is now virtually useless and she drags her left leg when she walks, causing her to tire easily and rely on the use of a wheelchair for long distances.

She has also been left with a severe visual impairment, moderate learning difficulties and amnesia. Her mother, Jane Pawley, faced a six-year legal battle for the money.

South Buckinghamshire NHS Trust admitted some responsibility in the delay in diagnosis.

The award, to provide Amy with the 24-hour day care and assistance she needs for the rest of her life, was approved at the Royal Courts of Justice in London on Monday.

Commenting on the award, Amy's mother said: "It is a great relief to both Amy and myself that it is finally over.

"Amy has had to endure so much, and with such bravery, and no amount of money will ever enable her to lead a normal life again.

"However, it will at least ensure that Amy can have the special care she needs for the rest of her life and, although I cannot say that justice has been done, the process of law has at least ensured Amy will be comfortable and secure."

A spokesman for the Trust said: "In response to a claim brought on behalf of Amy Pawley, South Bucks NHS Trust has admitted some responsibility for the delay in diagnosing Amy's condition.

"South Bucks NHS trust wishes to express sincere regret for the injury Amy has suffered and the trust hopes this payment will go some way to securing Amy's future."