Aiden Jared Thomas. Photo: supplied

Aiden Jared Thomas of Virgin Gorda is the first baby to be born in the Territory this year. He was born at Peebles Hospital at 5.00 p.m. on 1st January, 2013. He is seen here with his father, Mr. Andrew Thomas. Photo:supplied

Seven pound, two ounce Aiden Jared Thomas was born exactly on the stroke of the hour by Registered Nurse and Midwife Sandrine Phipps.

Aiden’s mother, Fiona Thomas who is a first-time mother, said that she wasn’t scared as her contractions began a little after 10:00 a.m. Although she hails from Virgin Gorda, Fiona was staying with family in the East End area.

“When I arrived at the hospital, I was told that I was already at 6 centimetres. I had no idea how far along I was, but I was excited. I knew I was going to have the New Year’s Baby.” Ms. Thomas said with a smile.

With over seventeen years of experience, Registered Nurse and Midwife, Nurse Asha Haynes-Trumpet said that she was praying for a New Year’s Baby. ‘We didn’t have a Christmas Baby so I was hoping and for a New Year’s Baby and we received one, so we are very happy. Midwives conduct many deliveries here, and we celebrate all of our babies. Fiona had a natural delivery, and she did an excellent job.”

In responding to the question, “What are you hopes and dreams for Aiden?” Ms. Thomas responded by saying, “I just want him to grow up to be a good person, to make me proud, and to be a gentleman.”

The origin of the name Aiden is Irish and according to babynames.com, it means ‘Little Fire.’