Alfie Evans LIFELINE: Air ambulance ‘arrives ready to fly toddler to Italy’

Alfie Evans' life support was switched off last night after doctors said there was nothing more that could be done.

However today Alfie's father Tom said the brave toddler is still breathing on his own, surprising doctors. 

A spokeswoman for campaign group Christian Legal Centre said: "Alfie has survived much longer than the doctors predicted, lending support to the request from Alfie’s parents for Alfie to be seen by medical experts in Italy.

"An air ambulance is now waiting outside Alder Hey Hospital ready to take Alfie to hospital in Italy."

An emergency High Court case began at 3.30pm on whether Alfie should be allowed to be flown to Italy, who granted him citizenship earlier this week, for treatment.

It comes amid a huge campaign to get more treatment for the brave 23-month-old, who was diagnosed with an incurable neurological condition in 2016.

On Facebook, Alfie's mum Kate James said today: "Alfie has been allowed oxygen and water. How amazing is he.

"No matter what happens he has already proved these doctors wrong."

Despite life support being taken off, Alfie continues to fight as a campaign to get him flown to Italy for new treatment continues to grow.

Italy this week granted Alfie citizenship and even the Pope has spoken out in support of the brave toddler. 

Alder Hey said in a statement this morning: “We wish to reassure patients and families attending Alder Hey hospital today that we are operating as usual and that, although you will see a police presence, the hospital is calm.

“Please attend your appointment as normal. Our Emergency Department is still open, however only attend if you have an accident or emergency that requires urgent care.

“If it is not an emergency, please attend your local GP or visit your walk-in centre. Please be aware, out of respect for the privacy of Alfie and his family we will not be issuing any updates about his condition.

“This is our normal and agreed practice with all our patients. We would be grateful if you could respect this approach and not contact any hospital or call our switchboard seeking updates.

“Thank you for your continued cooperation.”

This is a developing story, more to follow...