A WOMAN gave birth to a baby girl in Southend high street before being rushed to hospital.

Street Rangers from Southend’s BID rushed to help after hearing the news on their radio.

Commenting on the dramatic event Southend Business Improvement District Chair, Dennis Baldry said: “The details are still a little patchy due to all the excitement, but I gather one of our Street Rangers, Wayne Edwards, received a message over his radio to say that a lady had gone into labour outside the former BHS store on the High Street.

“Wayne responded immediately, along with an officer from Southend Council’s Community Safety Team.

“Fortunately, a midwife was also passing-by and took charge of the situation.

“Together, they were able to deliver a healthy baby girl.”

Dozens of shocked onlookers were standing by wishing the woman well as she was taken to Southend Hospital.

Mr Baldry added: “Incredibly, it was all over in around 15 to 20 minutes and I am delighted to say that both mum and baby are doing great and are now safely inside the maternity ward of Southend Hospital.

“I would like to pay tribute to Wayne, the Community Safety Team member and the lady who used her skill and experience to make this a truly memorable and happy event.”

Former deputy leader of Southend Council James Courtenay praised the joint effort by the teams.

He added: “More outstanding work by those people some think are a waste of money.

“The community safety team and BID Rangers have done a wonderful job - freeing up the police to do the police work, saving money and delivering (literally).”