A COUPLE from Wotton-under-Edge had a Christmas surprise when their first child decided to make an appearance.

Hayley and Stephen Walker, of Knapp Road, were delighted when Robert Michael Lewis was delivered at Stroud Hospital at 10.15am on Christmas Day, weighing 8lb 1oz.

Mrs Walker, 28, said: "It was not expected. We were trying to avoid Christmas Day if possible. He was actually due on the 21st.

"I had been telling him as of the 23rd he had to stay there until Monday but obviously he decided he had other plans! He decided he was going to come on Christmas morning whether we liked it or not. Obviously what will be, will be."

Mrs Walker praised the hospital staff as lovely.