Oliver and Amelia most popular baby names in Wales

THE Office for National Statistics has revealed the most popular baby names in England and Wales for 2014.

The two names came out top in seven out of 10 regions – including the West Midlands – with Jack the most popular boys’ name in the North East, Muhammed in London and Olivia the most popular girls’ name in the South East. Oliver has been the favourite name for new-born boys since 2013. The largest riser in the top 100 most popular boys’ names was Kian, which gained 41 places to reach number 54.

And new to the girls’ top 100 in Wales is Ivy, Lottie, Harper, Darcie and Maya.

Also featured is a selection of names from TV’s Game of Thrones, with fans inspired by George RR Martin’s fictional creations.

Founder of parenting site Channel Mum, Siobhan Freegard said the recent popularity of Victorian and Edwardian names is now stretching to the Middle Ages.

She added: “New boy’s entry Ellis is a Middle English version of Elijah, while Elijah itself has jumped 16 places in popularity to 53”.

Notable additions to the top 100 Welsh boy’s names include Cody, Macsen, Ifan, Louis, Cole and Elliot.