We have asked new parents to share their cutest images of the newest additions to their family to raise a smile among our readers and portray their experiences of giving birth and caring for a newborn baby during lockdown.
Many parents have said it’s been difficult not being able to introduce their new babies to their extended friends and family, and for others they have told of how the extended periods of isolation have been hard.
But, a common thread among all mums and dads is that their baby’s new life has given their families a chink of light during the darker times.
Click through this article to take a look at 11 wonderful babies born in Peterborough since the pandemic was announced in March 2020, and their adorable little faces.
1. Phoebe and Gracie
Nicole Sexton said: "I had my identical twin girls, Phoebe and Gracie, on the 10th January 2021. I had the girls at Peterborough City Hospital. I am finding being a first time mummy in this pandemic challenging at times as family members and friends cannot meet them just yet." Photo: UGC
2. Jude
Charlotte Wiggins said: "My baby boy Jude Andrew was born on the 23rd April 2020. I was induced on the 22nd and couldn’t see my husband until I was in labour, I said goodbye to my then 2 year old daughter in the 22nd April and didn’t see her again for 5 days 😞 it was a rubbish time, but couldn’t fault the team at PCH! The support bubble rule coming into place has been a godsend as it’s allowed us to see my parents and gain some support and normality we weren’t allowed to have" Photo: UGC
3. Finley
Leanne Clarke said: "I gave birth to my baby boy Finley on 29th December 2020. I’ve struggled a lot with this pandemic due to only having my parents as my support bubble. My partner has been amazing with trying to keep me sane and doing everything he can to help out. Being a first time mum whilst having minimal support is really hard and not being able to go to baby classes or meet other mums. But it’s made me closer to my little boy as we spend every second of the day cuddling each other." Photo: UGC
4. Harry
Laura Pummell said: "He is now 10 months old and the most happiest soul! It’s been tough missing out on that socialisation for us mums, and for the babies. I suspect quite lonely for many mums too, which I have felt at times. Also, for the babies, they have not been able to experience trips out to soft play, the farm etc. And with having an older daughter at home cying for my attention it’s a struggle being able to focus on one without the other, its been an intense year." Photo: UGC