Baby Laurie Born on Driveway in Dramatic Home Delivery
On Monday 11th January, Pilates instructor Louise Mackrill, 41, was jolted awake by heavy contractions—nearly a week before her due date. With no time to reach the hospital, midwife advice came fast: call 999 immediately.
Louise’s husband Tim and their family sprang into action. Tim recalls the incredible support from the emergency call handler: “The 999 call-taker was absolutely brilliant and told me exactly what I needed to do to be fully prepared for the birth. He calmed me down, so I was level-headed and ready to help my wife.”
War Veteran Paramedics Save the Day
Paramedic Kirsty Large, Technician David Harley, and student paramedic Emily Copson were just starting their shift when the call came through. Kirsty, a former Army driver with tours in Bosnia and Iraq, and David, a RAF Regiment veteran with 33 years’ service including Iraq and Afghanistan, made a formidable team.
Kirsty explains their quick response: “We put on blue lights and sirens right away. Our mission was to get to Louise fast and help her deliver safely.”
Emergency Birth with a Helping Hand
Arriving at the house, the crew donned their PPE before rushing in. Encouraging Louise every step, Kirsty even became a “human stirrup” to aid delivery. “Within minutes baby Laurie was born,” she said, describing the emotional moment the family met their new arrival.
Baby Laurie arrived at 6:45am, weighing a healthy 7lbs 9oz. The team wrapped him carefully to keep warm before transporting mum and baby to hospital for checks.
Student Paramedic’s First Birth Shines
For Emily Copson, this was her first birth on the job. Kirsty praised Emily’s calm and effective support. “Emily was fantastic, supplying gas and air, encouraging Louise, and staying attentive the whole time.”
The team was touched by the Mackrill family’s gratitude. Paramedic Kirsty added, “Thank you for the flowers, chocolates, and beautiful handmade card. Laurie’s name is lovely—a perfect choice.”
It was a birth none will forget, bringing joy and relief in the face of a high-pressure emergency.
