A COLCHESTER clinic has celebrated the 35th birthday of Louise Brown, the world’s first ‘test-tube’ baby, on Thursday.

More than 300 babies have been born using IVF techniques at Bourn Hall’s Colchester clinic in Newcomen Way since it opened in 2009, with another 150 on the way.

Sarah Pallett, clinic manager, said: "Our pioneers' success was first marked by their scientific breakthrough, giving hope to many couples.

“We are sure that in those pioneering days Patrick Steptoe and Robert Edwards could only have dreamed of the recent success rates achieved at Bourn Hall Colchester of above 50 per cent.”