Proud mum Lorna Connor was surprised to hear that not only had her daughter Molly-Louise won Wiltshire Times Baby of the Year 2013 but her son Harry, Molly-Louise’s twin brother, was runner-up.

Miss Connor, 27, of Ashton Common, Trowbridge, entered the five-month-old non-identical twins after she saw, saw the success of her friends’ babies in previous years.

The first-time mum said: “One of them got quite far so I thought I would give it a go. It was really nice to hear the news and there were only four votes between them.” The twins were born 11 weeks early at the Royal United Hospital in Bath, with Molly weighing 2.2lb and Harry 2.8lb. Molly spent eight weeks in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and needed help to breathe, while Harry spent seven weeks at the same unit.

Miss Connor, who is on maternity leave from her job as a carer, said: “They came after the fourth cycle of IVF so they are special. They are quite different. Molly is very laid back and Harry is a bit more lively.”

Miss Connor, who has been with partner Joe Gingell, 25, for eight years, will receive £500 for Molly’s triumph and £250 for runner-up Harry and said she might put their winnings into a savings account.

Five-month-old Bella Stone also came runner-up, scooping the £250 prize, which may also be banked, according to mum Sarah. Mrs Stone, 28, of Hewitt Close, Trowbridge, said: “We think she is beautiful and it is nice to see other people do too.”

The first-time mum, who married James three years ago, said Bella was a happy, vocal baby, who loved to chat and was a joy to have.

Both sets of parents will also receive a canvas print and a trophy.