A FAMILY is celebrating the arrival of their special baby who was born on a leap day.

Hexham parents Sophie Westgarth and Michael Telfer welcomed their second baby together, Ellis Hendrix Telfer who made an unexpected arrival at 10.06pm on February 29 2024. 

Sophie and Michael, who have known each other since school, and started dating in July 2020, were shocked that Ellis was born on the leap day, as they did not expect him to arrive until March.

Babies born in a Leap Year, are affectionately known as 'leaplings' and technically only celebrate their birthday once every four years.

There is a 1 in 1,461 chance that a child can be born on such a day.

Hexham Courant: Ellis Hendrix Telfer born on Feb 29 at 10.06pm and weighed 6lb 14ozEllis Hendrix Telfer born on Feb 29 at 10.06pm and weighed 6lb 14oz (Image: Sophie Westgarth)

Sophie said:"Ellis is our fourth child in our blended family but our second together.

"We had our first child Reuben together in March last year.

"Ellis wasn't due till March so having him on the leap year was a very big surprise!

"I went into labour on the morning of the 29th and we couldn't believe it! We didn't think he would actually be born on that day.

"My oldest son Isaac who is eight was so amazed telling me how rare it is.

"We aren't too sure yet how to celebrate his birthday but seeing as Reuben was born in March, we might celebrate it on the 28th or just see which day lands on a weekend.

"Either way he's definitely a special baby and has totally completed our family!