Not only has the 12-day-old got two grandmothers, he is also blessed with two great grandmothers - and a great-great grandmother as well.

His birth means there are now five generations in his mother Chantelle Cheney's family. She is happy there will be lots of relatives on hand to enjoy the newest family member and, maybe, help with babysitting duties in due course.

The 17-year-old former Aylesford School pupil said: "It's really nice to come from a big family. You have always got people there to help you out and to talk to.

"Most of the babies born in the family have been girls, but I've had a boy first."

Sean's great-great grandmother, 77-year-old Audrey McGuire, of Leamington, has 15 children - 12 girls and three boys - and more than 100 grandchildren.

Her oldest child Patricia is 56, and her youngest Caroline is 32.

Mrs McGuire said: "It's wonderful to have my first great-great grandchild - I wish I'd had a few more boys.

"My mum also had 15 children. It is hard work, but I like being part a big family because there is always something going on and you will never be lonely."

Her daughter Patricia, who is a support worker at Warwick Hospital's maternity unit where Sean was born, said: "It's such a special and rare occasion. During my 13 years at the hospital there has only been one family with five generations in it.

"You do grow up more quickly coming from a big family as you have to help out, but that's good.

"It means you cope with life better."

Sean's grandfather Paul Cheney, 37, is pleased to have a grandson at such a young age. He said: "I'm really proud - I don't mind at all. I'll be able to play football with him."

The baby's father Anthony Thornton, 18, also has five generations in his family - but all male.

He said: "I'm very proud of Chantelle, she had a difficult labour and did really well."

The family thanked everyone at the maternity unit for their support.