BABY Antony Stallard wasn't supposed to make an appearance until January 9, but instead he proved to be the best start to the New Year for his proud parents.

He was the first baby to be born on Wednesday, January 1 at the Worcestershire Royal Hospital - the first New Year at the £95m site.

Proud parents Kelly and Paul Stallard had been hoping to spend a quiet night in with their 15-month-old daughter.

"I came in to hospital at 8am on New Year's Eve," said 18-year-old Kelly.

"I thought the second was supposed to be easier than the first, but it wasn't!"

Antony weighed in at 6lb 7oz at 5.15am on New Year's Day.

"We didn't get any sleep," said 21-year-old Paul.

"The midwife said she was going to give Kelly a sleeping tablet, then all of a sudden it happened.

"He's the spitting image of Kayleigh when she was born."

The couple have returned to their Lichfield Avenue, Ronkswood, home to introduce their son to his older sister.

"I really wanted her here with me in the end," said Kelly.

"This is the first time we've spent a night away from her.

"But this is our last. We've got one of each now and I don't want to go through that again."