A COUPLE from Barrow who suffered an unfortunate miscarriage welcomed in the new year by giving birth to a "rainbow baby" on New Year's Day.
Luna Jean Harris was born at Furness General Hospital on January 1 at 9.22am weighing a healthy 8lb 3oz.
The newborn's father, David Harris, was left over the moon after the birth of his daughter who he referred to as a 'rainbow baby', after the couple suffered a miscarriage in December 2015.
The 23-year-old said: "It was very special. I was absolutely overwhelmed and I couldn't stop crying when she was born.
"It's all a bit of a blur but at the time it was amazing and I'm super proud of Charlotte.
"Luna looks just like me at the minute but I don't know if that will change as she gets older."
Charlotte Lewis-Parkes, who is also 23, was due to give birth on December 27 but the baby arrived later than planned as she went into labour at 1.30am on the first day of 2017.
Mr Harris said: "At first we didn't want her birthday to be on New Year's Day because it's a bank holiday anyway.
"However, now I'm kind of glad that she was born on that day and as soon as it happened I realised that it made her birthday that bit more special.
"This is a new year and a new start for us – it's a great feeling."
The pair, who live in Melbourne Street, Barrow, chose the name Luna because of Mr Harris's love for astrology, with that being the name of the Roman goddess of the moon.
A sentimental touch also saw them include the name Jean as a nod to Mr Harris's late grandmother who died in February 2009.
The personal support worker thanked the maternity ward at Furness General Hospital for their aid in delivering Luna and is now looking forward to enjoying family life as a trio.
Mr Harris said: "The midwives, Cassandra Calderbank and Gemma Anderson, were absolutely amazing and they offered brilliant support throughout the night. I couldn't have asked for two better people – they really were on top of their game.
"It's going to be challenge but I can't wait to be a father and I think I have a natural fatherly instinct in me. I can't wait to spend time with her on holidays, watch her go to school and to see her grow up."
READ MORE: Christmas Day Barrow babies are perfect present for families
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