THE parents of road death victim Natalie Jones are celebrating the birth of a baby daughter, Tia Danielle.
David and Elaine Jones, of Olsberg Close, Radcliffe, say they are thrilled with their newborn child.
Their eldest daughter Natalie (15) was killed in February 2004, when she was hit by a speeding motorist on Bolton Road.
The couple spent the new year celebrating the new arrival, with Natalie not far from their thoughts.
Elaine gave birth to 5lbs 6oz Tia at Fairfield Hospital last Friday, with David by her side. David said: "Elaine is well, but filled with mixed emotions.
"We are both so happy that Natalie's baby sister has been born in 2005. We'll be starting the new year together. Elaine and I have decided to give Tia Natalie's middle name too, and she will know all about her big sister.
"I'll be taking some paternity leave now so that we all spend some time together at home."
The couple enjoyed a quiet New Year's Eve and have been visiting family members. They have kept Natalie's bedroom as she left it, with additional pictures, letters and cards pinned up by her friends since her death. And now their spare room has now been converted into a pink nursery for Tia, with Winnie the Pooh and fairy pictures on the walls.
Mr Jones said: "It's been tiring for both of us. We didn't expect to be parents again, but we are thrilled to have our little baby here.
"Family and friends have been so good, and have spoilt her since she was born."
Since Natalie's death, the couple have fought to make the roads of the town safer with a number of peaceful protests.
As part of their campaign, a speed camera has been erected on Bolton Road near to the spot where Natalie died.
The birth of Tia also comes just weeks after the couple won a civil case against the driver whose car struck Natalie.
The insurance payout is expected to be several thousands of pounds.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article