Hugh Grant becomes father for first time at 51

Actor Hugh Grant was said to be "delighted" yesterday after becoming a father for the first time.

The formerly floppy-haired actor entered fatherhood at the age of 51 last night after a woman with whom he had a brief affair gave birth to a baby girl.

His publicist said in a statement: "I can confirm that Hugh Grant is the delighted father of a baby girl. He and the mother had a fleeting affair and while this was not planned, Hugh could not be happier or more supportive. He and the mother have discussed everything and are on very friendly terms."

The mother's identity was not revealed but Mr Grant has had relationships with high-profile figures in the past – notably actress Elizabeth Hurley and socialite Jemima Khan. He was also romantically linked to Chinese actress Tinglan Hong earlier this year.

Mr Grant is due to appear alongside Hollywood stars Tom Hanks and Halle Berry in a big screen adaptation of David Mitchell's novel Cloud Atlas next year.