“They were amazing”: Couple praises firefighters who helped deliver baby in back of car

A baby born in the back of a car was reunited with the firefighters who helped deliver her.

Falmouth couple Alice Hearle and Josh Beardmore recounted the dramatic arrival of their second child, Olive.

Alice’s waters broke a few days before her due date.

After being checked at Royal Cornwall Hospital, the couple returned home.

The next morning, Alice began experiencing mild contractions.

Rapid labour progression

The couple remained relaxed, thinking they knew what to expect with their second child.

Josh said: “We chilled out, went for a walk along the seafront and got a grilled cheese.”

However, Alice’s labour progressed rapidly shortly after contacting the midwives.

Alice said: “Five minutes after I got off the phone with her, I had this secondary water break. I was getting contractions every minute.”

Realising they wouldn’t make it to the hospital in time, Josh, an RNLI lifeboat volunteer, quickly thought of a plan B.

Firefighters step in

Josh recalled a nearby fire scene where he knew firefighters would be present.

He decided to head there for assistance.

Josh said: “I waved over at the guys and said ‘I think I need a bit of a hand here, my Mrs is having a baby’.”

“They were amazing,” Josh said.

“The dropped everything. The two girls were straight in the car and said ‘you look after Alice and we’ll deal with the baby’.”

Falmouth Blue Watch and Fire Investigation teams sprang into action.

Firefighters Katie Hoskins and Rosie Tonkin took charge, with Katie handling the delivery and Rosie communicating with the ambulance service.

Alice said: “They were so comforting and took control of the situation. I didn’t have time to be worried.”

Baby Olive was born safely at 2.36pm on Thursday, May 16.

Reuniting with the crew

A few weeks later, Josh and Alice returned to thank the firefighters with their newborn and two-year-old son, Teddy.

Alice said: “It was nice to go back and say thank you and talk about it. One of the guys even noted the exact time that she was born.”

Kath Billing, Chief Fire Officer at Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service, said: “I am so pleased that Olive arrived safely and I am immensely proud of the crews that helped with her delivery. They are a testament to the service and their profession.”