Royal baby born: Unsuspecting parents walk out of the Lindo Wing to be greeted by media circus

The birth of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge's daughter had only recently been announced when the new parents emerged with their baby

The surprised couple were photographed by the world's media (Sky NEws)

A couple walked out of St Mary’s Hospital with their newborn baby to claps and cheers from hundreds of well-wishers today, but it was not the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.

The world’s media had just been told that a baby girl had been born to the royals when the doors of the Lindo Wing opened.

All eyes turned to see an unsuspecting couple emerge into the glare of dozens of camera flashes.

The couple's exit from the hospital was captured on live television around the world

They quickly made their way down the stairs but backed up at the request of the gathered photographers and posed for pictures, holding their baby in a carry cot.

As the crowds clapped and cheered, they took a quick snap of the scene themselves before being taken away in a silver Bentley.

Sky News presenter Kay Burley later described the unexpected moment as a poignant reminder that many babies are born at the hospital every day.

“We did see a happy couple with their baby, it was lovely,” she added.

“They got a round of applause and they posed on the steps for photographs as well.”

The Duchess gave birth shortly after 8.30am on Saturday and she and her daughter are said to be doing well.

Prince William was present for the birth and the crowds of well-wishers outside cheered as the news was announced.

The little princess has not yet been named but the current bookmakers’ favourites are Charlotte and Alice.