Anxious waiting was replaced by elation as parents from across Castle Point and south Essex celebrated their new year arrivals.

Among the bundles of joy born at Southend Hospital was was Jordan Emanuel Chandler-Lewis. Mum, Yolande, 35, opted for a water birth which she said was "absolutely brilliant".

Jordan, weighing 7lb 3oz, was born at 2.05pm and will soon meet his two sisters and brother at their home in Southwaters, Canvey.

Proud dad - Karl Reynolds with baby Zach

Coby Jake Bobin was the first to put in an appearance at 6.50am. His exhausted mum, Maxine, 16, endured a 30-hour labour but declared Coby, who weighed in at 8lb 3oz, to be worth every minute of it.

Proud dad Jay Bradshaw busied himself getting the couple's Hamstel Road home ready for their new son.

Lisa Reynolds produced Zach Shea at 10.51am after a mere two-hour and 20 minute labour.

Lisa, 30, of Jackdaw Close, Shoebury, said: "I wasn't surprised because my last child was born in just under two hours."

Zach's dad gave his 6lb 13oz son a big cuddle and said he forgave him for taking them by surprise and arriving exactly two weeks early.

Yolande and Terry Chandler Lewis with baby Jordan Emanuel

Little Caleb Hammas made a very untimely appearance at 11.40am, arriving nine weeks too soon and weighing just 3lb 4oz.

He was being cared for in the hospital's neonatal unit until he is strong enough to be reunited with his parents Donna and Paul.

Published Thursday, January 2, 2003

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