Princess Beatrice gives birth to baby girl Athena

Princess Beatrice has given birth to a baby girl named Athena several weeks prematurely, Buckingham Palace has said.

The late Queen's granddaughter was due to give birth in early spring and was told in December not to travel long distances.

Mother and daughter are now both said to be at home and doing well.

In a statement, the palace said: "Her Royal Highness Princess Beatrice and Mr Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi are delighted to announce the safe arrival of their daughter, Athena Elizabeth Rose Mapelli Mozzi, born on Wednesday 22nd January, at 12.57pm, at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London.

"The baby was born weighing four pounds and five ounces.

"Their Majesties The King and Queenand other members of the Royal Family have all been informed and are delighted with the news."

Mr Mapelli Mozzi posted a tribute to his new daughter, calling her "tiny and absolutely perfect".

He wrote on Instagram sharing a photograph of Athena wrapped in a blanket: "Athena Elizabeth Rose Mapelli Mozzi.

"We welcomed baby Athena into our lives last week. She is tiny and absolutely perfect.

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"We are all (including Wolfie and Sienna) already completely besotted with her.

"Our hearts are overflowing with love for you, baby Athena.

"A massive thank you from my wife and I goes out to all the wonderful staff at the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital for their exceptional care and support during this incredibly special time."

The couple share a three-year-old daughter, Sienna. Mr Mapelli Mozzi also has an eight-year-old son, Wolfie.

Princess Beatrice's sister Princess Eugenie celebrated the new arrival by posting "Welcome Baby Girl" and sharing Mr Mapelli Mozzi's photograph on her Instagram Stories.