A Nasa rocket scientist whose life was saved by Kingston midwives two decades ago has visited the hospital for a reunion with staff.

Vinita Marwaha, known as Minnie by family, from Surbiton, was born at 28 weeks weighing 1lb 10oz 22 years ago. She is now on course to become an astronaut in seven years time.

She met Anne Boatman, now a liaison health visitor, for the first time.

Ms Marwaha told the Daily Mirror: "I've always known I was close to death when I was born, and have always been incredibly grateful to the doctors and nurses who cared so well for me.”

Her parents Kim and Bob, both bank workers, said they were bursting with pride.