'WHAT A TROOPER'
Gemma Atkinson gives birth to a baby girl as Strictly boyfriend Gorka Marquez calls her a hero after ‘frightening’ labour
GEMMA Atkinson has given birth to a baby girl after a "frightening" labour, her Strictly Come Dancing partner Gorka Marquez has revealed.
The 34-year-old has spent the past four days in hospital before returning home for the first time today.
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To announce their happy news, Gorka, 28, shared the last picture taken of him and Gemma before welcoming their daughter into the world on July 4.
Gorka said: "THE LAST PIC BEFORE WE BECAME 3.
"Our beautiful baby daughter arrived on Thursday 4th July and myself and Gem couldn’t be happier."
The professional dancer told fans the birth hadn't gone smoothly, revealing there had been frightening moments throughout Gemma's labour.
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"She's incredible and she certainly made an entrance, giving us all quite a fright at times," admitted Gorka.
"Gemma my absolute HERO! After seeing you go through all you did to bring our little girl to life has made me love and respect you even more.
"What a trooper you are. I couldn't be more proud of you!!"
He thanked staff at The Royal Bolton Hospital for looking after his beautiful partner.
Gorka added: "Thank you SO much to the nurses & doctors at The Royal Bolton Hospital who did the most incredible job taking care of gem and our baby. Back home now for family time #blessed".
Gorka met the former Emmerdale actress met on the 2017 series of Strictly Come Dancing.
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Despite being partnered with different people on the show, sparks flew between the pair and they later revealed their romance.
Sharing her happy news that she'd become a mum for the first time, Gemma wrote on Instagram: "And just like that, we’re a three!
"Our beautiful baby daughter arrived on Thursday 4th July and myself and Gorks couldn’t be happier.
"She's incredible and she certainly made an entrance, giving us all quite a fright at times!
"Little Miss independent already! Thank you SO much to the nurses & doctors at The Royal Bolton Hospital who did the most incredible job taking care of myself and my baby.
"You’re all so wonderful and I’m so grateful to have had you all with me and to have been under your care these past 4 days.
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"Back home now for family time and to introduce little lady to her big brothers Norman & Ollie.... Let the next life chapter begin @gorka_marquez."
Gemma was thrown a surprise baby shower by her pals on June 22.
Free-flowing prosecco, delicious cupcakes and afternoon tea made for a fun day out for the 34-year-old before she gave birth.
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It came just in time too, as less than two weeks later Gemma was rushed into hospital.
The couple's Strictly Come Dancing co-stars have been sending their well-wishes since hearing the news.
Janette Manrara said: "Congratulations!!! You are going to be the BEST mommy and daddy ever! Cannot wait to meet the Little Disney Prince (I'm officially making her one!)."
Oti Mabuse said: "Congratulations I am so so happy for you and Gorka. You'll be amazing parents."
Diane Buswell added: "The most adorable family. Congratulations guys."
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