Handyman Wigan dad delivers his own baby at home
One minute painter and decorator John Billington was anxiously awaiting the arrival of paramedics and his mother-in-law, as his partner Samantha went into labour.
Then the 27-year-old, from Pendle Road, Golborne, stepped up and became a surrogate midwife.
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Hide AdJohn even had the presence of mind, as his daughter came into the world, to turn her around so the delivery ran smoother.
Within a matter of minutes Sophia, weighing in at a healthy eight pounds and eight ounces, was safe in the arms of mum.
He said later: “It’s one of my new talents.”
John awoke to find Samantha had been experiencing some pains and had gone to sit in the bath, as a precaution.
But when she had difficulties getting out, and shouted to John for help, the couple soon realised there was no time to spare.
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Hide AdWhile the pair also waited for a neighbour to look after their sons James, aged seven, and four-year-old Thomas, their soon-to-be little sister was eager to join them.
John admits he “panicked a little” at first, as Samantha told him she could see the baby’s head. But he soon seized the initiative.
He said: “We were struggling to get her shoulder out so I altered her position a little and out she came.”
Samantha, aged 25, added: “He even had to find something to cut the cord with but he coped brilliantly.
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Hide Ad“The boys were able to walk in and say hello to their new little sister.”
Her mum, Julie Ellis, arrived a short time later and was shocked to find her grand-daughter had made such a speedy entrance.
She added: “It was such a beautiful thing and the baby certainly wasn’t hanging around.”
Little Sophia and Samantha were taken to Salford Royal Hospital for a check-up but the pair were allowed home soon after.