Our first city-zen!

Baby Eleanor was born at the Royal Gwent Hospital - just 39 minutes after yesterday's official announcement that Newport had become Wales' newest city.

Weighing 7lb 4oz, Eleanor was born by Caesarean section at 12.09pm, the second daughter for proud parents, David and Alex Lawrence, of Risca Road, Newport, and a sister for two-year-old Olivia.

But her historic status was of less importance to her parents than her safe arrival. Mr Lawrence admitted: "I didn't know of the significance, to be honest the city status announcement came as complete surprise."

As the Lawrence family celebrated, messages of goodwill were still coming in today for the new city.

Newport's Chief Inspector Carl Close, said: "What a monumental moment in the town's history.

"As a Newportonian, I feel a real sense of pride following yesterday's wonderful news. "I now hope that all the townspeople help to make New-port the great city that it is capable of being."

Gwent's local authorities hope that Newport's new status will act as a catalyst to revitalise the region.

Councillor Angus Donaldson, chairman of Caerphilly county borough council, said: "We would like to congratulate Newport City on its new status.

"The announcement reflects the important historical, economic and cultural impact Newport has within Wales.

"Hopefully this will also have a benefit and impact on neighbouring areas in the south Wales valleys."

Torfaen councillor Brian Smith, leader of the council, said: "This is a massive boost to greater Gwent. It finally recognises that this area deserves a city and will put us on the map.

"Granting Newport city status means all the neighbouring areas will share the advantages that it brings.

"This is fantastic news and everybody involved should be commended." Blaenau Gwent's leader of the council, John Hopkins, added: "We supported Newport's bid and I send my congratulations.

"Newport is now our nearest city and we hope it will bring benefits to Blaenau Gwent and strengthen the case for the proposed Ebbw Vale to Cardiff railway link to have a direct link to Newport."

l NEWPORT County AFC will be allowing children under-16 into their Dr Martens Premier League clash with Worcester City tomorrow (3pm) for free as the club celebrates Newport gaining city status - if the youngsters are accompanied by an adult.

*Pictured: Proud mum Alex Lawrence give Eleanor a kiss