Swimmer Rebecca Adlington gives birth to baby girl

Rebecca Adlington and Harry Needs at the British Soap Awards last month. Credit: PA

Double Olympic gold medal winner Rebecca Adlington has given birth to a baby girl.

The former Team GB swimmer, who is married to Harry Needs, tweeted news of the arrival today.

New dad Harry also tweeted his joy after his wife gave birth.

The couple announced they were expecting their first child last year.

Adlington, 26, retired from professional swimming in 2013 after winning two gold medals at the 2008 Olympics in the 400 and 800-metre freestyle events.

She also won bronze in the same events at the London 2012 games.

Following news of the birth, fellow athletes were quick to congratulate the new mum and dad.