MY BABY LOOKS A LITTLE PEAKY...
IT IS one of the most popular drama series of the past few years, detailing the life and crimes of early 20th Century English gangsters.
And now it seems that Peaky Blinders is having a surprising influence in Scotland – on the names people give their children.
National Records of Scotland figures show that among the names to increase in popularity this year were those of the characters from the TV show.
Although Jack and Olivia retained top spot for baby names in 2019, rising through the ranks were Arthur and Tommy, thought to have become fashionable once again thanks to the BBC crime drama set in 1920s Birmingham.
Cillian Murphy plays crime boss Tommy Shelby in the award-winning series, while Paul Anderson plays his brother Arthur. This year, Arthur rose 20 places to 26th and Tommy soared 41 places to 48th in the list of most popular baby names. There were 423 newborn boys given the name Jack, the most popular choice for 12 years in a row, while the 370 girls named Olivia made it the most popular choice for the fourth year in a row. National Records of Scotland said that of the 46,523 births registered in Scotland this year around 10 per cent – 4,806 – were given a unique name. Alan Ferrier, head of demographic statistics at National Records of Scotland, said: ‘Once again Jack and Olivia are the most popular first names in Scotland, however, there have been some fascinating changes in the top names for 2019.
‘The fastest climbers in the boys’ top 50 are Tommy and Arthur. For the girls, the big climbers are Gracie, Ayla and Hallie, who are now all in the top 50.’
Culture Secretary Fiona Hyslop said: ‘It is always a pleasure to read the top baby names of the year, which give an insight into one of the most cherished moments in every parent’s life.
‘While Olivia and Jack have shown their enduring appeal by retaining the top spot yet again, it’s interesting to see newer entries such as Ayla and Hallie in the top 50.’