MOTHERS and fathers celebrated the New Year with a new life at two Oxfordshire hospitals today.

In Oxford, the John Radcliffe Hospital's delivery suite saw six new-born babes, while a boy and a girl were born at The Horton Hospital, Banbury.

For first-time parents Conor and Deidre Barry the birth of their newborn baby boy had added significance.

The as-yet unnamed boy arrived at 7.22am weighing 9lb and half an ounce.

The Barrys, from Kelburne Road, Cowley, first got together at a New Year's Eve party.

Mrs Barry, 28, said: "Our first date was seven years ago on New Year's Day, so it is kind of an anniversary for us. I'm feeling great now that he came in 2008.

"He was due on December 31, and my family wanted me to hang on as they wanted a new year baby.

"I'm delighted with him. He's more like Conor - he's got his nose."

Proud father Mr Barry added: "He's our first one and it's really cool. It's going to be quite something to get used to.

"I think we were quite relaxed before - it was my mother who was getting a bit panicky on the phone, but in the end she had nothing to worry about."

Nine minutes after the Barry's birth, midwives delivered Kate Reeder's first child, Brendan.

Miss Reeder, from Sharland Close, Grove, said: "I'm fine now he's here. He looks happy, so I'm happy."

Lorna and David Canderton celebrated the birth of 8lb son Jarad at 5.09am.

Mrs Canderton, 40, of Berinsfield, said: "I'm over the moon. We're glad - we didn't really want a Christmas baby. Having a New Year baby is a lot nicer."

Iluna Soumare, 25, gave birth to Roxana at 6am.

Mrs Soumare, from Cowley, said: "Now I feel great. She's perfect.

"I think she's very special because she was late - it's a new year with a new life."