Today is a very special day. Today is the day that my youngest sister finally becomes a proper adult. She will at long last be joining the rest of her siblings in their twenties.

Now, I know what you’re thinking, you become an adult when you turn eighteen. I personally do not believe this to be the case. You may be at the age where you can legally pop to the pub for a cheeky one or make your voice heard in the vote; but truth be told, it is not until you are in your twenties that your adult life really begins.

There is something rather special about this day twenty years ago too. Although I am supposed to have lost all my childhood memories according to the BBC Breakfast programme, I can honestly say that this day will be envisaged in my mind for the rest of time.

I can clearly envisage the wet, stormy night. The windowpanes were creaking and as I sat in my top bunk I heard some rather strange noises.

This was the day that my darling baby sister Ruthie was born. In the exact same room that I am sat in now, writing this.

How many sisters can say that they were the first person in the whole entire universe (apart from the midwife of course!) to hold their sibling in their arms and welcome them to the world. I am lucky enough to be able to say that I can.

Having the privilege of being able to watch your youngest sibling grow from a red, fat blob to the most thoughtful, generous and beautiful human being is something that money can’t buy.

Growing up, there was always quite a considerable age gap between us, but it is not until recently that those six years seem to have faded away. It is fair to say that we are somewhat like chalk and cheese. Whilst I am highly organised and meticulous, Ruthie tends to be more of a ‘go with the flow’ kinda girl.

Looking at Ruthie on this special day and seeing what a beautiful young woman she has become makes me want to burst with pride. If I could be even slightly as generous, big-hearted and selfless as she is I would be content.

I feel so honoured to have been able to see the amazing awakening of my beautiful little sister into the butterfly girl she is today.

Happy Birthday Ruthie