A stork delivered a Christmas present with a difference, when a baby was born at intu Uxbridge during the Christmas lights switch on.

The official start to Christmas in Uxbridge was interrupted by a pleasant surprise, when Laura Allen, from Hayes, gave birth to her baby daughter inside the shopping centre.

Paramedics were called on Sunday November 22 to help deliver 6lbs 2oz baby Skylar, when mum Laura went into labour 10 days before her due date.

intu Uxbridge staff were on hand to help while Laura gave birth in the Lower Mall toilets before Laura, dad Curtis Coker and their new bundle of joy was taken to hospital.

Tracey Newman, guest services manager at intu Uxbridge , said: “Skylar obviously wanted to be part of the celebrations at the centre.

“We are thrilled to have helped with such a special delivery and are pleased to say that mum and baby are both doing well after their experience.”

Laura, Curtis and baby Skylar returned to the centre on last Wednesday (November 25) to thank staff and accept a basket of goodies to help them settle in at home.

As baby Skylar was born, VIP appearances were taking place as the Uxbridge lights were turned on by Westlife star , Brian McFadden elsewhere in the town.

Young shoppers joined the parade bringing along their lanterns created at intu Uxbridge last weekend, plus mischievous bouncing elves, Christmas belles and Jack Frost on stilts provided the Christmas cheer, with the festive evening finishing with carol singing in The Piazza.

Natasha House, Marketing Manager at intu Uxbridge, said “We had a fantastic day celebrating Christmas with the parade and light switch on.

“The added joy of Skylar’s arrival made the day truly unforgettable. Now Christmas has officially
begun.”

For more information on Christmas events at intu Uxbridge, visit their website .