Handyman Wigan dad delivers his own baby at home

One minute painter and decorator John Billington was anxiously awaiting the arrival of paramedics and his mother-in-law, as his partner Samantha went into labour.

Then the 27-year-old, from Pendle Road, Golborne, stepped up and became a surrogate midwife.

John even had the presence of mind, as his daughter came into the world, to turn her around so the delivery ran smoother.

Within a matter of minutes Sophia, weighing in at a healthy eight pounds and eight ounces, was safe in the arms of mum.

He said later: “It’s one of my new talents.”

John awoke to find Samantha had been experiencing some pains and had gone to sit in the bath, as a precaution.

But when she had difficulties getting out, and shouted to John for help, the couple soon realised there was no time to spare.

While the pair also waited for a neighbour to look after their sons James, aged seven, and four-year-old Thomas, their soon-to-be little sister was eager to join them.

John admits he “panicked a little” at first, as Samantha told him she could see the baby’s head. But he soon seized the initiative.

He said: “We were struggling to get her shoulder out so I altered her position a little and out she came.”

Samantha, aged 25, added: “He even had to find something to cut the cord with but he coped brilliantly.

“The boys were able to walk in and say hello to their new little sister.”

Her mum, Julie Ellis, arrived a short time later and was shocked to find her grand-daughter had made such a speedy entrance.

She added: “It was such a beautiful thing and the baby certainly wasn’t hanging around.”

Little Sophia and Samantha were taken to Salford Royal Hospital for a check-up but the pair were allowed home soon after.