Rebecca Adlington gives birth! Former Olympian welcomes daughter Thea Joy with husband Andy Parsons after suffering two devastating miscarriages in three years

Rebecca Adlington has confirmed the birth of her third child, after suffering two heartbreaking miscarriages in the space of three years. 

The former competitive swimmer announced her pregnancy in September, describing it as a 'miracle' after struggling to conceive her second child with husband Andy Parsons - and third in total.  

Adlington, 37, already shares son Albie, two, with her husband, as well as daughter Summer, eight, from her previous marriage with ex-husband Harry Needs. 

Taking to Instagram on Sunday evening, the former Olympian confirmed she and Parsons had welcomes daughter Thea Joy to the fold, telling followers: 'Our family is complete.' 

Adlington accompanied her post with a first look at her baby daughter as she slept in her hospital cot as the family formed hearts with their hands around the tot. 

Fans and famous friends were quick to share their best wishes with fellow Olympian Greg Rutherford writing: 'Massive congratulations' while Tom Parker's widow Kelsey gushed: 'So special, congratulations'. 

Yet another Olympian, Jazz Carlin added: 'The most amazing news, congratulations to you all! Hope you’re feeling ok, sending lots of love'. 

Meanwhile fans said: 'Congratulations, she is beautiful': 'Beautiful name for an absolute beauty congrats to you all': 'Aww congratulations to you all': 'Aw congratulations baby girl will be so loved by you all': 'So pleased for all of you xx'.