MIDWIVES see thousands of births throughout their career, but most agree witnessing a new life coming into the world never loses its magic.

"There is something about the job that is unlike any other," said Angela Dyer, 42, who came back to midwifery after leaving to have children. "I suppose I enjoy it because it is about looking after people."

Angela went on the return to practice course before returning to the profession.

She said: "I am so glad I did. Returning to this job is the best thing I have ever done."

Martina O'Connell, 37, has worked as a midwife for the past 11 years after qualifying as a nurse at the age of 17. She said midwives enjoy a great deal of autonomy when treating patients.

"Midwifery is a profession in its own right. You oversee a patient all the way through the process and your patient might never have to even see a doctor. Being a midwife is a really challenging profession, but also very rewarding and satisfying."

Her colleague Karen Van der Cruyssen, 43, is following the midwifery return to practice course, over 16 weeks part-time.

She said: "It has been 17 years since I worked as a midwife, so coming back was quite daunting. The course has been quite hard work, but very helpful.

"I love the work as a midwife the thrill of being at a birth never goes. It is nice to be able to share in that."

Anyone interested in following the return to practice course should contact Liz Jaffray on 01793 426505.