A woman has given birth to a daughter on the hard shoulder of a Kent motorway this afternoon.

The expectant mum was already in labour and being taken to hospital to give birth.

But she was forced to pull over between Folkestone and Ashford when the little girl decided she couldn't wait any longer.

And though they didn't have time to call the midwife, paramedics from South East Coast Ambulance Service (Secamb) were able to get there in time to help deliver the baby in the back of her Vauxhall.

The baby was born just after 1.30pm.

Both mum and daughter are said to be "doing well" in hospital, police said.

Officers arrived before the ambulance crew on the London-bound carriageway between junctions 11 and 10.

"We're thankful for the police but more importantly the mother and baby appear to be well..." - Rich Airey, Secamb

The baby was delivered on the scene and mum and baby were taken to the William Harvey Hospital in Ashford.

Secamb's Rich Airey said: "Secamb is extremely proud of the crew for their assistance in delivering the baby, and most importantly congratulations to the mother who we hope is dong well in hospital.

"We provided help over the phone. Crews arrived with one car and two ambulances.

"We wish them both well. We're thankful for the police but more importantly the mother and baby appear to be well."

The new arrival is not the first to come into the world when least expected.

Babies have chosen to make an appearance in Kent everywhere from railway stations to shopping centres and even music festivals.

See our list of the county's most unusual births here.

Do you know the family? We'd love to hear from them. Contact the newsdesk on 01233 895801 or email kentishexpress@thekmgroup.co.uk

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