THE parents of the first baby born in York Hospital in 2015 have said it is the best start to the New Year they could have hoped for.

Jessica Sophia Sharp was born at 3.06am yesterday weighing 6lbs8oz following a 24 hour labour for her mum Kerry.

Her delighted parents Kerry, 33, and Andy, 35, who married a year ago, said their daughter's arrival was just beginning to sink in.

But they said it was made particularly special as Kerry had been told she may have difficulties in having children.

"I wasn't expecting her to arrive on New Year's Day," said Kerry, "My due date was December the 30th but usually with your first baby they are late.

"It hasn't really sunk in yet but it's a nice start to the year."

Speaking about their hopes for their daughter's future, Kerry said: "I just hope she is happy and she gets everything she wants out of life."

Jessica was due to meet her grandparents Catherine and Gordon Sharp yesterday and is due to meet grandmother Jacky and step-grandfather Graham Smith, and grandfather Graham Hustler imminently.

By early afternoon yesterday, three babies had been born at York Hospital.

Danielle Booth, a healthcare worker in the maternity ward, said: "It has been a nice Christmas and New Year and there has been a lovely atmosphere. It's quite a special time of year to have a baby."