Rachel Riley and Strictly star Pasha Kovalev have welcomed their first child into the world after a surprise bathroom birth.
The Countdown maths whizz has introduced her newborn baby, a girl called Maven, to her social media followers, revealing her baby’s rather unconventional delivery on Sunday.
Rachel, 33, said in a post that after being overdue for two weeks, little Maven decided to come so quickly that there wasn’t time to get to the hospital.
Instead the 7lbs 4oz baby was brought into the world on Rachel and Pasha’s bathroom floor, with the help of a doula and midwives from St Mary’s Hospital.
Rachel tweeted: “2 weeks after we were expecting her this little one finally made an appearance!
“Miss Maven (one who understands) Aria (lioness) Riley Kovaleva arrived on Sunday morning weighing in at 7lbs 4.”
She then uploaded a second post: “After keeping us waiting she came so fast we didn’t get to hospital & was born in our bathroom with our amazing doula & wonderful St Mary’s midwives rushing over to be with us just in time!
“She’s absolutely perfect & Pasha & I are in newborn bliss. Couldn’t be more in love.”
Along with the messages she uploaded several photos of herself, pro dancer Pasha, and Maven.
Famous faces including Newsreader India Willoughby also chipped in with congratulations, saying: “Beautiful! Congratulations Rachel. Maven is such a gorgeous name. Best Christmas present ever.”
Former Strictly dancer Ola Jordan added: “Congratulations guys. Sending you all lots of love.”
Fans were delighted with the news, and send the happy couple best wishes.
One tweeted: “Welcome to the world little one! It's a bit messy here right now but you have an incredible mama to protect and guide. She changed the world, made it safer for you. And massive well done on getting the precious one into the world safely. Enjoy these dreamy cocooned days.”
A second said: “Congratulations to you both on the safe arrival of your beautiful girl. You look fantastic Rachel. Enjoy.”
Another agreed: “Congratulations! Happy news! I wish all three of you a happy life together, filled with love and peace.”
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