Baby Mix-Up Joy

A couple who had been hoping for a sister for their three sons hid their disappointment when paramedics announced the arrival of another boy.

Alison and Russell Ball were happy their new-born was alive and well and decided to name him Matthew.

It wasn't until 30 minutes after the birth that the red-faced crew realised there was an important little bit missing.

As they carried out their final checks on the baby,they realised their mistake - he was actually a she!

The couple saw the funny side and are delighted they have a daughter,who was rapidly re-named Emma-Louise Sheila Jane.

The ambulance crew arrived at the family home after 33-year-old Mrs Ball went into labour.

There was no time to take the expectant mother to hospital,so the baby was born 15 minutes later at home.

For half an hour everyone was under the impression that the 81b 6oz baby was a boy,and referred to him as Matthew.

Mrs Ball,a housewife,said today that her impatience to know the sex of the baby was to blame for the mix-up.

"I hadn't a clue what I was having and I couldn't wait.I was so eager to know what I had after three sons."

Proud father Russell,a delivery driver,said "We have always wanted a daughter which is why we kept on trying.My wife is really excited and is already planning to buy her little dresses."

According to 38-year-old Mr Ball,their sons Philip,aged 10,Andrew,seven,and Joseph who is ten-and-a-half months old,are just as happy with the new bundle.

"They can't do enough for her,although the little one doesn't quite know what's going on!"

The parents praised the paramedics.

Mr Ball said "If it hadn't been for them I wouldn't have known what to do."