Alfie Evans’ parents welcome a baby boy, four months after the toddler’s death

Alfie Evans' parents have welcomed a baby boy - four months after losing the 23-month-old to a rare neurodegenerative disorder.

Katie James is said to have given birth last month. The couple named the newborn Thomas, after his father Tom Evans, according to The Sun.  Alfie's case became the topic of a worldwide international debate after his parents and medical professionals became caught up in a legal battle, having disagreed wether the toddler's life support should be maintained. The toddler passed away in April this year. A source told the publication:

“They have been left devastated by Alfie’s passing, but also vowed that they would carry on living for their son and are determined his death won’t break them. “Kate knew she was pregnant in Alfie’s final few weeks and wanted to keep it quiet so she could give her all to Alfie. “She and Tom are delighted with their new arrival. He’s doing a great job of giving them something to focus on while they grieve. “It’s obviously tinged with sadness though as they know Alfie would have been a fantastic big brother, if only he’d managed to survive.”

Both parents carry a gene that triggered Alfie's illness. However, it is believed that three-week-old Thomas has passed a series of tests at the hospital - and "so far the doctors are cautiously optimistic about his prognosis".