A BROMSGROVE couple enjoyed a double New Year's celebration with the early arrival of their first child.

Phil and Carolyn Gibson of Longmeadow Road, Lickey End, had just seen in the year 2002 when expectant Carolyn was rushed to the Alexandra Hospital in Redditch with contractions.

At 7.41am Carolyn gave birth to 6lb. 3oz. baby, Joshua James, almost four weeks earlier than expected.

New mum Carolyn said: We are extremely happy, it's brilliant. It was a bit of a surprise though as I was not due until January 26."

Lorraine and Jeff Terry of Catshill were also celebrating on New Year's Day with the arrival of baby Nathaniel, who came into the world at 5.30am weighing 5lb. 1oz.

While, at 3.26pm, Joanne Hammond and partner Dean Randle, also from Catshill, saw the birth of baby Ella Randle, who weighed in at 10lb.