Hospital meals contained glass

A major investigation began yesterday at a children's hospital after young patients' meals were contaminated with glass, metal, chewing gum and cardboard.

Detectives were called to Booth Hall Children's Hospital, Manchester, after parents spotted the objects. They are now investigating the possibility of sabotage after eight instances in just six weeks.

Detective Chief Inspector Mike Stanfield said: "We are trying to find out if anyone would have a motive for doing such a thing. It is not clear if the contamination is as a result of an accident or broken machinery or if it is something more malicious."