THE coronavirus pandemic means 2020 will be remembered by a lot of us for all the wrong reasons - but it has been a wonderfully unforgettable year for some south Essex residents.

These babies are bringing a ray of sunshine to their families in these difficult times and their arrivals mean lockdown will be of added significance to their parents.

We have been asking you to send photos of your newly-arrived bundles of joy – and you did not disappoint.

To get involved, simply complete our online form.

Scroll down to see more adorable pictures of our readers' babies born during lockdown.

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The night he came home - Bethany Sears was in labour for 29 hours before Oliver George Jones made his long-awaited entrance into the world

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Cute - Elizabeth-Hazel Joyce Lynne Mitchell came into the world three weeks before her due date, on September 9, weighing 5lbs 4oz

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Newborn - Dolly Rose Wright weighed 8lbs when she was born in Southend

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Double trouble - Ronnie and Regan Rosenthal Cooper were born on July 23 at Southend Hospital, filling parents Jake Cooper and Lauren Rosenthal with joy

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Happy days - Chelsie Clarke and Lee Cousins have been left besotted by daughter Amelia Wendy Cousins