Alexa Rose Atkins

Born: Aug 6, 9.46pm

Weight: 7Ib 6oz

Parents: Helen and Peter Atkins, Melksham

THERE was no hanging around for Helen Atkins when she arrived at Trowbridge Birthing Centre with her husband Peter, with the couple’s newborn girl delivered 40 minutes after arriving at the centre.

Mr and Mrs Atkins, who live in Southbrook Road, Melksham, have been together for 14 years and married for eight and also have a four-year-old son called Lewis.

The couple, both 35, decided on a name after finding out the sex of their newborn during the pregnancy, going for Alexa as a tribute to Mrs Atkins grandma, whose maiden name is Alexander.

“The birth was really fast as we got to the hospital at 9pm and she was delivered at 9.46pm,” said Mrs Atkins. “The pregnancy was fine and there were no real problems throughout, which was the same for Lewis.

“We knew the sex beforehand and we chose Alexa as my gran’s maiden name is Alexander and we thought it would be a nice way of keeping that in the family.

“The nurses at the birthing centre were great and the lady we had was brought in from the Royal United Hospital in Bath and was really nice. They were all fantastic.”

Mr Atkins, who works at Cereal Partners in Staverton, and Mrs Atkins, who works as a pharmacist, said they have had lots of visits from friends and family since Alexa’s arrival.

“We have had quite a few visits from the grandparents and they are thrilled as she is the first girl grandchild, so she is going to be absolutely spoilt,” said Mrs Atkins.

“She has settled in well so far and generally sleeping well, but she has her moments. Lewis loves her and while he is a bit wary about cuddling her, he loves just watching her.”