Messenger worked during her pregnancy

Doctors diagnosed pre-eclampsia, a condition caused when the kidneys are damaged as a result of high blood pressure.

Her husband said: "Melinda felt absolutely fine, so it was a complete shock when we were told she had to go to hospital immediately.

"She was induced, but eventually the baby went into distress and so was delivered by caesarean.

Frightening

"The whole experience was quite frightening, but I am delighted that both Melinda and Morgan are now doing fine."

Messenger worked right through her pregnancy, presenting the game show Fort Boyard on Channel 5 and taking the lead role in a pantomime production of Cinderella in Swansea.

Last month, while heavily pregnant, she filmed scenes for her first movie role as Princess Vanilla in the madcap Mumbo Jumbo.

The low budget fantasy film also stars Brian Blessed, John Inman and former Bevery Hils 90210 star Jamie Walters. It is due for release in UK cinemas later this year.