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Dec Donnelly Describes Baby As 'Ray Of Light' After Heartbreaking Loss In Family

Dec Donnelly Describes Baby As 'Ray Of Light' After Heartbreaking Loss In Family

Dec's brother passed away earlier this month at the age of just 55.

Declan Donnelly has welcomed his second child and described his newborn son as a 'ray of light' after his brother's untimely death.

The I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! co-host, 46, announced that he had welcomed a son with his wife Ali Astal on Saturday (July 23).

He wrote on Twitter: "Shortly before 10am yesterday, 23.7.2022, Ali and I welcomed the arrival of our son, Jack Anthony Alphonsus, a very welcome ray of light. He is wonderful and Isla is beyond excited to be a big sister! D x."

The host accompanied the sweet message with a picture of the newborn's hand, and fans were quick to congratulate him and Ali.

The pair already have one child together, Isla, who was born in 2018.

Fans of the funnyman were quick to offer their congratulations on Twitter.

One wrote: "Congratulations to you, Ali and Isla! I'm sure your brother is watching with so much love for you all. I bet Ant is so moved by you giving your son his name. Much love to you all x"

"Congratulations! Fantastic news at such a difficult time," added a second. "A true ray of light and lovely playmate for Isla."

"Oh my goodness that's the best news, congratulations to you and Ali," wrote a third. "And I love the name, I'm sure Uncle Ant is over the moon."

A fourth added: "Congratulations to you and all your family. A ray of light in your recent darkness. I'm sure little one will be cherished with love."

Dec's happy news comes after his big brother, priest Father Dermott Donnelly, died at the age of 55 earlier this month.

He married Dec and Ali back in 2015.

Father Dermott Donnelly on his brother's wedding day.
Father Dermott Donnelly on his brother's wedding day.

In a statement cited by the Daily Mail, Dec's family said: "It is with great sadness that I inform you of the death of Fr Dermott Donnelly who died peacefully this afternoon in hospital.

"This has come as a great shock to all of us.

"Please pray for the repose of his soul and keep his family, especially his mother, in your prayers at this difficult time."

The last tweet from Ant and Dec prior to the birth announcement came from Ant, who paid tribute to Dec's late brother.

He wrote: "Fr Dermott you were the kindest, wisest man I knew. Rest in peace my friend. You will never be forgotten.

"My thoughts, prayers and love are with your wonderful family.

"The world has lost a special man. X"

Featured Image Credit: Alamy/Instagram/antanddec

Topics: Celebrity