Sir Elton John and his partner David Furnish have become parents to a child born via a surrogate mother in California.

Zachary Jackson Levon Furnish-John was born on Christmas Day (December 25) and weighed 7lb 5oz.

In a joint statement, the couple said: "We are overwhelmed with happiness and joy at this very special moment.

"Zachary is healthy and doing really well, and we are very proud and happy parents."

A representative told Us magazine that the pair planned to respect the privacy of the surrogate mother. Details of the arrangement are to remain confidential.

In 2009, Sir Elton and Furnish unsuccessfully attempted to adopt a Ukrainian orphan after the singer was deemed too old.

(by Jason Gregory)