Your lockdown babies are a beacon of hope

New arrivals have been lighting up the lives of mums and dads everywhere this past year.

Over the last 12 months restrictions have meant giving birth has been a more orchestrated experience than it might have been.

And many new parents have been unable to introduce their new arrival to family and friends other than over Facetime and Zoom calls.

One thing’s for sure, however - these bundles of joy have been welcome additions to the family and given everyone some hope for the future.

Little Stuart Denham celebrated his first birthday this week, having been born on March 23, 2020 - the first day of lockdown.

Proud great auntie Annemarie Hamilton said: “My mum and dad, his great grandparents didn’t see him for almost two months - and that was only through a window.”

Bridge of Allan mum Julia Graham, meanwhile, found out she was pregnant on the same day and eventually welcomed her second child Cameron James Graham on

December 3.

“It was a very nerve -wracking time with lonely hospital visits and scans on my own,” said Julia. “It was a very different experience of pregnancy than my first born, with no family and friend gatherings and everything online.

“But he couldn’t have come at a better time, giving joy to all of my family and friends.

“We can’t wait to travel around Scotland in the summer and create amazing memories as a family of four.”

Over the coming weeks we will be featuring more pictures and stories of your lockdown era arrivals.

Arrival Caitlin and Jamie Dougall welcomed their second child Lucas Auchinvole on May 29 at FVRH. Mum says he “brightens up all our days, especially in lockdown, and we are very lucky to have him”. He is pictured at one week old with loving big sister Lottie

Breath of fresh air Sally O’Lenskie and partner Craig welcomed their first child together Skye Anele Gilmour to the world on February 24, 2021. She is pictured getting ready for a walk around King’s Park

Thankul Charlene Kleinman says they were“so thankful”for the arrival of beautiful baby girl Paisley L Watson on September 8 at FVRH

Trailblazer Stuart Denham celebrated his first birthday this week, having been born on March 23 last year - the first day of lockdown

Lovable Lyle Lewis Sonny Lennox arrived on May 8 at 12.51pm

Angelic Mum Hayley describes little Ellie Reid, born September 22, as “our little lockdown angel”