Princess Beatrice has celebrated the arrival of her second child, a baby girl named Athena, born several weeks early.
On January 22 at London’s Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, the Royal newborn entered the world weighing a tiny 4lb 5oz but is reported to be in good health.
Now back at home, Beatrice, 36, and husband Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi are enjoying family time with Athena and her older sibling, Wolfie and Sienna.
The King and Queen have expressed their delight, according to Buckingham Palace.
Proud father Mapelli Mozzi captured a photo of little Athena, who is seen wearing a white garment and snuggled in a pink blanket—the image keeping her face coyly obscured.
He said: “Athena Elizabeth Rose Mapelli Mozzi. We welcomed baby Athena into our lives last week. She is tiny and absolutely perfect. We are all (including Wolfie and Sienna) already completely besotted with her.
“Our hearts are overflowing with love for you, baby Athena. A massive thank you from my wife and I goes out to all the wonderful staff at the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital for their exceptional care and support during this incredibly special time.”
Originally, Beatrice was set to give birth in early spring but had received medical advice against long-distance travel in December. Consequently, she stayed close to home for Christmas, attending church at Sandringham rather than traveling abroad, as physicians had flagged the chance of premature labour.
Buckingham Palace shared the joyous news: “Her Royal Highness Princess Beatrice and Mr Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi are delighted to announce the safe arrival of their daughter, Athena Elizabeth Rose Mapelli Mozzi, born on Wednesday January 22 at 12.57pm, at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London.”
They continued, “The baby was born weighing 4 pounds and 5 ounces.”
“Their Majesties The King and Queen and other members of the royal family have all been informed and are delighted with the news.”
Beatrice and Mr Mapelli Mozzi have also reportedly expressed their gratitude to all the hospital staff for “their wonderful care”. The newborn is a younger sister to the couple’s three year old daughter, Sienna, and Mr Mapelli Mozzi’s son and Beatrice’s stepson, eight year old Wolfie.
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