A CHRISTMAS birth would be an unexpected event in most families – but not for Ian and Emma Porter.

Tiny Elliott Robin, who arrived at 11.44am on the day weighing 8lbs, is the fifth member of his family who will share a double celebration in future.

Ian, 37, from Covingham, said: “As soon as Emma fell pregnant I said the baby would arrive on Christmas day. She said it wouldn’t, but I just knew. It’s an absolutely amazing feeling.”

Ian’s birthday’s falls on Christmas day as well as two of his cousins and another cousin’s daughter. Victoria Collins, 18, welcomed Noah Dale Wesley into the world. Noah weighs 7lbs 14oz and was born at 5.40am. Victoria, from Calne, said: “I’m tired but very happy. “It is amazing to know that I have got full responsibility for a new life.”

Proud dad Jonathan Marshall, 23, was at her bedside in Great Western Hospital’s maternity ward yesterday. Charlotte Barr, 37, was with newborn Maya, who was born at 10.54pm weighing 9lbs 12 oz.

Charlotte said: “We were hoping it wouldn’t be today but I’m delighted. “It’s the best present a mum could have.”

Maya will return home to Hungerford to be with Charlotte, dad Mike and her three siblings. Edward Smith and Kerry Gordon, both 20 from Royal Wootton Bassett, were with their first child, Rosie, born at 6.35pm weighing 6lbs 3oz.

Kerry said: “It was a shock because Rosie arrived four weeks early. “It’s very exciting and we can’t wait to get home. It’s the best Christmas present ever.”

Edward, Kerry and Rosie will have their Christmas dinner next week with family because they missed out on the day. Olivia Messenger, 22, and Adam Barrett, 31 were overjoyed by the arrival of Evelyn at 12.34pm, weighing 5lbs 10oz. Olivia, from Marlborough, said: “I’m very excited and very happy. I’m feeling pretty good”

The world also welcomed Ellie Nia Brown, who was born at 6.25pm to Nikki and David Brown, of Sherston. Ellie weighs 7lbs 2.5oz.