Ref. 28467-10SAM Cook celebrated 2004 with a belated Christmas present - a beautiful baby boy.

Scott Paul Taylor was the first baby to be born this year at the Great Western Hospital.

Miss Cook, 21, of Manchester Road, gave birth to Scott at 12.33am with fiance Martin Taylor, 18, by her side.

Scott was due to arrive on December 21, so his parents were fully prepared.

Miss Cook said: "I was induced in the afternoon, so knew he was coming. But I didn't expect it to be so near midnight. We are thrilled."

Scott, who has his father's blue eyes, weighed in at 7lb 4oz.

His mother had a difficult pregnancy, so she cannot wait to show off the fruits of her labour.

She said: "This is my first time and I had constant morning sickness. Christmas dinner is the only meal I managed to keep down for months. I have lost two and a half stone but Scott was more than worth it."

Scott's father was equally proud.

Mr Taylor said: "This is the best way to celebrate New Year."

The new parents met at Woolworth's, in Regent Street, where they both work. They got engaged last year.

At 8.51am Rosie Ronayne was the first 2004 girl.

Weighing a bouncing 9lbs 7oz, Rosie's mother, Sam, said she popped out like a rugby ball.

Mrs Ronayne, 29, from Old Town, said: "Rosie was due today, so is very punctual. She came out in a flash and went straight to sleep."

Rosie's father, Stuart, 36, was there for the birth after an anxious New Year's Eve of waiting by the phone.

Mr Ronayne's mother, Brenda, 56, looked after Rosie's three-year-old brother, Daniel, while he welcomed the new member of their family.

Mr Ronayne, who is training to be a driving instructor, said: "It is brilliant. We even got a free teddy because Rosie was born on New Year's Day."

The family, who live above The Baguette Bar in Prospect Place, are now planning a belated festive party.

Mrs Ronayne said: "Rosie has made this Christmas so special."