North-east families were given an extra special surprise gift for Christmas as their new babies were welcomed into the world yesterday.
A number of expectant mothers were at Aberdeen Maternity Hospital for the festive season – including one whose girl was given a name in keeping with the festive season.
Holly Affleck came into the world at 2.38am yesterday, much to the surprise of mum and dad Marie and David, who weren’t expecting their third child’s arrival until at least January 11.
Weighing in at 7lb 7oz, baby Holly will join the Affleck family as the little sister of Jacob, 7, and Joseph, 4.
Exhausted but proud mum Mrs Affleck said: “I liked the name, and with the time of year it was the only thing both of us could agree on.
“It was a big surprise and we weren’t expecting her to arrive so early. We arrived at hospital just two hours before she was born.”
Mrs Affleck, 33, added: “It was nice giving birth to her on Christmas Day, but I didn’t think much of it really.
“I think we might have an unofficial birthday for her and a real birthday, just so she gets the best of both worlds.”
Mr Affleck, 38, said: “We told her brothers the good news this morning, and the reaction was kind of mixed.
“It was difficult to tell if they were more excited about a new sister or their new Spider-Man and Iron man outfits, but they do know that they want mummy to come home, which is the big thing.”
Later in the day, baby Millie was born to proud mum and dad Michelle Yule, 27 and Michael Paterson, 29.
Millie was born at Aberdeen Maternity Hospital at 3.41am, weighing 6lb 6oz, and a little bit later than her due date of December 19.
Her mother said: “I just turned up to hospital yesterday at about 9pm, and had her about quarter to four in the morning, she’s been really quiet so far.
“I thought she was going to come on my birthday last week, but she came today instead, but I’m just glad it’s finally all over for Christmas to be honest.”