SINGAPORE - The first baby born on National Day arrived on the stroke of midnight to the surprise of her parents.

Beverie Goh Rui Xuan was delivered naturally at Thomson Medical Centre right on the dot, just in time for Singapore's 51st birthday.

The 2.9kg girl is the first child of marketing manager Benjamin Goh, 28, and accounts executive Jade Ho, 27.

They only found out later that Beverie, who was born a day early, was Singapore's first National Day baby.

"I feel very happy and honoured," said Ms Ho. "National Day will be another significant day to look forward to."

The couple received a gift pack, worth nearly $1,000, from the hospital, which included diapers, milk powder and a book on nutrition written by one of its paediatricians.

At Mount Alvernia Hospital, a 3.5kg baby girl, Toh Xiu Hui, was born a second after midnight, making her the second baby to be born this National Day.

Her parents, customer service officer Wong Ying Ying, 37, and Mr Raymond Toh, 39, who is self-employed, received a $600 hamper from the hospital, which included a baby car seat and vouchers. The couple got married last February.

Despite having just given birth, Ms Wong was full of energy and chatted about getting dresses and ribbons for her daughter.

Ms Wong said: "We are delighted and thankful that our little girl is finally here in time to celebrate National Day. Best of all, everyone will always remember and celebrate her birthday; countdown and fireworks every year!"