ADVER journalists are often expected to take on unusual tasks.

We've tried wing walking, wrestling and even pole dancing.

But after a hard day at the office, deputy sports editor Owen Houlihan never expected to be taking on his most important challenge yet - being a midwife.

There could have been panic in the Houlihan household when his wife Heidi went into labour at 9pm on Monday.

But Owen managed to stay cool, calm and collected as he delivered son number two.

The drama of baby Geordan's birth all happened in the couple's sitting room at their home in Bradford-on-Avon.

"It was an incredible experience but not one I really want to repeat again," said Owen, 33.

"I had gone home early on the day because Heidi said she had some contractions.

"When I got home we timed the contractions and they were 10 or 12 minutes long and we thought there was nothing to worry about. And the hospital said the same."

The contractions remained about the same length apart for much of the evening.

The baby was clearly on his way, but there were no clues as to quite how quickly Geordan would be putting in an appearance.

"Suddenly I heard Heidi," said Owen. "She was screaming that the baby was arriving and it all began happening in a rush. I set Heidi down on the settee and called 999, and the people at the other end were superb and calm.

"They told me to get towels and water, and then asked me if I could see the head and I could.

"I think I was on autopilot and when he finally arrived I laid him on Heidi's stomach for a few minutes until the ambulance turned up with a midwife and doctor so they could cut his umbilical cord.

"It was just amazing but I don't think I'll be changing careers!"

Geordan Patrick weighed seven and a half pounds and was a week overdue.

He is the couple's second son, although three-year-old Ciaran's birth was not so sudden - he gave his parents enough time to get to hospital.

"I had been there for the birth of Ciaran, but this was a wow moment," added Owen.

Mum Heidi, 36, said: "It was a big shock, there I was having contractions that were normal to suddenly five minutes later having the baby.

"But Owen was cool, calm and collected and very relaxed. Considering everything that was going on, he was wonderful."

Mother and baby were taken to Trowbridge hospital afterwards, and were able to return home two days later.

Now Geordan is settling into his home and his routine, sleeping through the day and keeping Owen and Heidi awake at night.