Holden Home After Life-Threatening Childbirth

Amanda Holden has returned home after her life-threatening childbirth ordeal, her spokesperson has confirmed to Sky News.

The Britain's Got Talent presenter has been discharged from hospital and is recovering at her home in southwest London.

Holden spent several days in intensive care after giving birth to her second daughter Hollie eight days ago.

Alison Griffin, spokesperson for Holden and her husband Chris Hughes, told Sky News: "We are delighted to say that Amanda is now home.

"She and Chris would like to thank everyone who was involved in her care for their amazing skill and dedication, and also to thank everyone who sent such kind thoughts and wishes during this time.

"She is of course thrilled to be home with her family - Hollie is absolutely beautiful and Amanda and Chris are completely besotted with their two girls."

The 40-year-old actress was reportedly close to death after losing a large amount of blood during childbirth.

Although premature, Hollie was born healthy, weighing in at 6lb 1oz.

Holden already has a daughter, Lexi.

Complications during that pregnancy with a low-lying placenta meant she gave birth by Caesarean section.

The arrival of Hollie follows a difficult two years for Holden.

She lost a baby just weeks before the BGT finals in 2010, then last February her son was stillborn when she was seven months pregnant.

Speaking about the ordeal later, Holden said: "It was without doubt the blackest period of my life. You never think that it might happen to you. I was an absolute mess. Poor Chris was too but he was amazing."