New scare for Sophie as second baby is born at 31 weeks

Singer Sophie Ellis-Bextor has given birth to her second child nine weeks early after being struck down by a potentially deadly pregnancy condition for a second time.

The 29-year-old star has given birth to a 2lb 10oz boy, said her mother Janet Ellis, a former Blue Peter presenter.

It is the second pregnancy drama for Ellis-Bextor, who had to have an emergency Caesarean section at 28 weeks after being diagnosed with pre-eclampsia while carrying her first child, Sonny, now four.

Speaking on BBC Breakfast News this morning, Ellis said: "Sophie's just had her second little boy. He was early, nine weeks early, but he is doing fine. He is doing very well." Ellis-Bextor is married to The Feeling guitarist Richard Jones. When she revealed they were expecting another child, she said it was due in April. It is understood the baby was born on Saturday.

Outside the couple's west London home today Jones said it had been tough: "I'd be lying if I said it wasn't stressful. It has been dramatic, but we are very happy."

Ellis-Bextor's agent said today: "The happy couple have named their boy Kit Valentine Jones. Both mother and baby are doing well."

Professor James Walker, of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, said: "After 30 weeks a baby should be fine."