A heartfelt celebration took place during the Jubilee parade as Guardsman Ashley Hargreaves, 33, became a father to twins just hours after his involvement in the momentous event. The parade, held to commemorate Her Majesty’s incredible 70-year reign, marked a historic milestone for the nation.
In an unexpected turn of events, Ashley’s girlfriend, Nadia Nabizada, went into labor on Saturday, despite not expecting to give birth until June 25. Coincidentally, it aligned perfectly with Ashley’s participation in the Jubilee proceedings. With sheer excitement, Nadia’s waters broke at 8 pm on Sunday evening, raising anticipation for the arrival of their much-anticipated twins. However, it was not until 11 pm that Nadia started fully dilating, and an hour later, at midnight, Maya and Lyla joined the world. The couple fondly considers them their “Jubilee twins,” as their birth coincided with this remarkable national celebration.
Welcoming Maya Diana and Lyla Elizabeth, the couple bestowed upon their daughters royal middle names. Maya Diana, weighing 4lb 7oz, arrived at 12:30 am, followed shortly after by Lyla Elizabeth, weighing 5lb 2oz, at 12:46 am. These beautiful twins are the couple’s first children, bringing immense joy and a sense of jubilation after being together for just over a year.
Ashley, a Guardsman with the Scots Guards attached to the Household Cavalry, has been stationed in Hyde Park Barracks, Knightsbridge, while serving the Queen. He expressed his overwhelming delight, saying, “Having twins on the Jubilee weekend was more amazing than anything I could have imagined. I’m a big lover of the royal family.” The names Maya Diana and Lyla Elizabeth have deep personal significance to Ashley. Maya Diana was named after his beloved grandmother, whose name also happens to be Diana. As for Lyla Elizabeth, her name pays tribute to Ashley’s work and dedication to the Queen.
Ashley’s career in ceremonial duties, including guarding palaces and participating in the Changing of the Guard, has been a source of immense pride. Reflecting on his experiences, he shared, “Riding out of the gates of Buckingham Palace has been a career highlight.” He further noted the significance of walking in the Queen’s Birthday Parade and how special it was that Nadia could be there to witness it. “I got Nadia tickets for it as well so she actually came and watched it. She was happy and proud, she really liked it.”
Nadia has shown remarkable resilience and recovery after childbirth. Ashley commends her strength, stating, “Nadia has recovered really well. She absolutely smashed it.” The couple eagerly looks forward to embarking on the incredible journey of parenthood, cherishing the birth of their twins as an unforgettable moment intertwined with the nation’s jubilant celebrations.
