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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
Entertainment
Katie Fitzpatrick

Love Island star welcomes a baby girl with her footballer fiance

Love Island star Malia Arkian has welcomed a baby daughter with her footballer fiancé Hope Akpan.

Malia, who appeared on Love Island in 2016, and Bradford City player Hope have introduced baby Halo on their Instagram pages.

In one photo Malia, from Wilmslow, wore personalised pink pyjamas as she cradled her precious daughter.

Another snap showed doting dad Hope sharing skin-to-skin contact with their adorable newborn.

Malia said on her Instagram: "So proud to be your mummy, you have been an absolute joy to carry for nine months and thank you for allowing me to have such a smooth and natural labour.

Hope cradles baby Halo (Hope Akpan/Instagram)

"I am truly blessed. All of God’s grace in one tiny face, Love you Halo Baby. Mummy's got you forever."

The reality star also praised Hope for 'being such an incredible father.'

"So hands on, so loving. Our baby is so lucky to have you," she praised.

Announcing the birth she wrote: "Welcome To The World Baby Halo.

Welcome to the world baby Halo (Hope Akpan/Instagram)

"Dreams do come true, we are eternally grateful!

"Thank You God. Born 25th October 12:45pm weighing 7.7 Pounds. Still speechless and overwhelmed with love."

And Hope said: "My greatest and latest inspiration. Born 25th October weighing 7.7 pounds. Thank you God for a safe delivery, her and mum did amazing. Welcome to the world my precious Halo. Divine aura of light."

Sharing a photo of herself at eight months pregnant Malia told her daughter that she couldn't wait to meet her.

"When I feel you move, I wonder about who you will be, what amazing personality is to be born into the world, and what challenges and adventures await you, and also await us, your parents," she wrote.

Malia caused a stir during her time in the Love Island villa.

She went on a date with Manchester PR director Scott Thomas while he was coupled up with Kady McDermott, which ended in Malia being ejected from the villa. 

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