Meghan Markle welcomes baby girl

By April Norris

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry have announced the birth of their second child Lilibet ‘Lili’ Diana Mountbatten-Windsor.

Lilibet was born at 11:40am on 4 June in Santa Barbara, California, weighing 7lbs 11oz.  No pictures of the baby have been released as of yet.

Both Meghan and Lilibet are healthy, and the couple said they are settling in at home.

Buckingham Palace said: “The Queen, the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall, and the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have been informed and are delighted with the news.”

The couple decided on the name Lilibet as a nod to the Queen’s childhood nickname, coined by her father.  The baby’s middle name, Diana, was chosen honour Harry’s late mother.

Lilibet is the Queens 11th great-grandchild, and is eighth in line to the throne.

Prince Harry and Meghan released the following statement on their website Archewell: “On June 4, we were blessed with the arrival of our daughter, Lili… She is more than we could have ever imagined, and we remain grateful for the love and prayers we’ve felt from across the globe… Thank you for your continued kindness and support during this very special time for our family.”

They also said in their message that anyone who feels they want to send a gift should support organisations that work for women and girls.

The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall said: “Congratulations to Harry, Meghan and Archie on the arrival of baby Lilibet Diana. Wishing them all well at this special time.”

The Duke of Duchess and Cambridge said: “We are all delighted by the happy news of the arrival of baby Lili.”

Prime Minister Boris Johnson sent congratulations to the family, and Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said it was “wonderful news”.

Meghan’s friend, Misan Harriman said: “Lilibet has arrived! Congratulations to my brave friend and her lovely family!”