VILLAGERS in North Waltham have spoken of their joy after model and Hollywood actress Elizabeth Hurley - whose family roots are in the village - gave birth to a baby boy.

The 36-year-old superstar, who has appeared in many films, including Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery, and has been the face of make-up firm Este Lauder, grew up in North Waltham and studied at Basingstoke's Queen Mary's College.

It is believed her mother, Angela, who still lives in the village, has been with her daughter after she gave birth to a son, Damian Charles, at the exclusive Portland Hospital in central London on Thursday.

American playboy film producer Steve Bing, 35 - who Liz claims is the baby's father - would not comment to reporters outside his Los Angeles home after news broke of the birth.

But on Friday, North Waltham residents said they were delighted that mother and baby were well.

The Rev Michael Kenning, of St Michael's Church, said friends told him of the good news while he was in Lincolnshire, just before he returned to North Waltham.

He said: "I offer my congratulations and best wishes, and hope the baby will be seen in the village."

Shopkeeper Nadine Ford said: "I wish them all the best. The whole village is very pleased for Liz."

She added that the Hurley family were nice, down-to-earth people who would give Liz a lot of support.

Roger Mattia, landlord of the Fox Inn, said: "It must be very exciting for them and for Angela to be a grandmother. Being a grandparent adds a new dimension to your life.

"I wish Liz well and hope to see her, her mother and the young one at the pub."