HE may be a newcomer to the world but John Alexander Hendry is oblivious to the fact that radio listeners across the country were anxiously awaiting his birth.

HE may be a newcomer to the world but John Alexander Hendry is oblivious to the fact that radio listeners across the country were anxiously awaiting his birth.

His parents Andy and Ginny became the accidental stars of Noel Edmond's afternoon national radio programme after Mr Hendry sent a simple text message to Noel's drive-time show on Radio 2.

The saga began when Mr Hendry, 33, a former Evening Star photographer, was stuck in traffic on the M25 a few weeks ago.

He said: "I was in a massive traffic jam and was bored stiff so thought I might as well send a text in to the radio.

"Ginny was expecting any day so I just sent a jokey message saying 'Tell Ginny not to go into labour yet and wait until I get home as I am stuck in traffic on the M25.'

"I didn't think anything of it but then I suddenly heard them read it out and it's all spiralled from there."

For the rest of the week the Hendry's impending arrival became a regular feature on the show, with Noel asking them to text in and update him every day.

On the Wednesday evening he even called Mr Hendry and spoke to him live on air.

Unfortunately Noel's return to the airwaves was only fleeting, while he covered for regular presenter Johnny Walker.

So, by the time John finally appeared, at 5.09pm on October 3, Noel was then finishing his final show – meaning Noel and listeners never found out what happened.

When Noel heard the good news he said: "I'm delighted for them, that's really good news. I wondered what had happened so it's great to find out.

"I'm bitterly disappointed that they didn't call it Noel though!"

John, who weighed 9lb 15oz, was born at the couple's home in Constable Road.

Mr Hendry said: "Both he and Ginny are doing really well. There were a few scary moments as he came out with the cord wrapped round his neck, but he is absolutely fine now – really healthy and happy."

The couple, who live in Constable Road, have three other children, Elizabeth, 7, Thomas, 3, and Emma, 2.

Mr Hendry said: "They are absolutely besotted with him, they can't get enough of him. I'm not sure how long that will last before the jealousy kicks in though!"