Welcoming the first babies of 2026 at Princess Anne Hospital

It was a joyful start to the new year at Princess Anne Hospital (PAH), where our team supported the safe arrival of 14 babies on New Year’s Day – nine boys and five girls.

Baby Reuben was among the first new arrivals, weighing 3550g. Parents Eleanor and Bradley Griffin, from Southampton, said: “Bringing our first baby into the world on New Year’s Day made the start of 2026 unforgettable for us and we are so grateful for the wonderful care we received. It’s a moment we’ll treasure forever.”

Across 2025, a total of 5,028 babies were born at PAH including 85 multiple births (83 twins and 2 triplets) – marking another year of extraordinary moments for families and staff alike.

Emma Northover, director of midwifery at PAH, said: “Welcoming the first baby of the New Year is always a moment of joy for everyone. It is a privilege for our maternity and neonatal team to support families at such a special time in their lives.

“I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to all our maternity and neonatal staff members, who work tirelessly throughout the year – day and night, seven days a week – to provide safe, compassionate care.

“I am especially grateful to those who have worked throughout the festive period, ensuring our services remain available for families when they need us most – I am incredibly proud of each and every one of them.”

A heartfelt thank you to our incredible midwives, doctors, maternity support workers, and the wider team who worked through the festive period.