A YEADON baby has become the first in Leeds to help celebrate the city's 800th birthday.

Luke Jackson, who was born at 12.15am on New Year's Day at Leeds General Infirmary, was guest of honour at Tuesday's launch of Celebrate Leeds 2007 at the Carnegie Stadium, Leeds.

Luke, who has four brothers, and his mum, Leanne Oliver, were presented with a commemorative certificate by Leeds City Councillor John Procter and Leeds Rhinos captain, Kevin Sinfield.

Leanne, 28, of Henshaw Oval, said: "It was very nice and felt quite special. I'm not a big Leeds Rhinos fan, but my partner and my sons are."

All babies born in Leeds this year will receive a certificate signed by the Lord Mayor in recognition of the fact they share their birth with the 800th anniversary of the city.

Called New Faces, the certificates, sponsored by Leeds Rhinos, will form just part of a series of events due to take place in the city during the year.

Chairman of Leeds Cultural Partnership, Councillor John Procter, said: "I am delighted that, with the help of Leeds Rhinos, we are able to present these commemorative packs to new babies. I hope that when they grow older the children born in 2007 will be interested in reading more about the fascinating history of their city and be proud to have been part of Celebrate Leeds 2007.

"Celebrate Leeds will showcase what makes this city special, and what makes it exceptional is the people in it. We are trying to highlight this with the fantastic array of events and activities going on throughout the year."

During the next 12 months there will be a number of events taking place in the city including this month's concert, Urban Fusion, concerts at the town hall and a jousting tournament at Leeds Armouries.