THE parents of Greenock baby Sophia Smith who tragically died in hospital have said their long fight for answers has taken its toll on them emotionally.

Matthew and Theresa Smith, who lost their 11-day-old baby in April 2017, say that they have been left with many unanswered questions which they hope that a recently-announced Fatal Accident Inquiry will now be able be answer.

The Crown Office this week announced a date for the preliminary hearing for the inquiry, which will go on to examine the full circumstances surrounding Sophia's death.

Solicitors Thompsons, acting on behalf of  the couple, said: "Since the death of their daughter Sophia, Mr & Mrs Smith have been left with a number of unanswered questions.

"They have fought extremely hard over a long period of time and at great emotional cost to get to this point. They now look to these questions to be fully addressed at the forthcoming FAI. "

Earlier this year the Crown Office said that a Fatal Accident Inquiry would be held to examine the full circumstances surrounding her death.

The preliminary hearing will be held on May 7, after the Crown lodged a formal notice to begin the court process.

Confirming the date for the initial hearing, a senior law officer said there was 'significant public concern' that such an inquiry should be held.

The FAI will put particular focus on what role infection played in Sophia's death, the standard of care she received and communication throughout. 

Three years ago grieving mum Theresa spoke about the death of her baby girl at the public inquiry into concerns about the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital and the Royal Children's Hospital in Glasgow.

In response West Scotland Labour MSP Paul O'Kane took up the family's case and raised concerns in the Scottish Parliament. Mr O'Kane has also welcomed the Fatal Accident Inquiry, which will be held at Glasgow Sheriff Court.