Paddy McGuinness has said he is "terrified" as he paid birthday tributes to his children.

Former Take Me Out host Paddy, 50, is a proud dad-of-three. His oldest children, Leo and Penelope, both celebrated their 11th birthdays in recent days, which prompted messages of love and support from him and former partner Christine, 36.

Both Christine and Paddy took to social media to gush over their darling twin children. This comes after the pair split from each other - calling time on their 11-year-marriage in 2022 in a shock ending that left fans stunned.

However, the pair continue to see each other on a regular basis due to staying in the same house. This was explained in their documentary Our Family and Autism, as the pair admitted they did not want to disrupt the lives of their children - who, much like mum Christine, were diagnosed as being autistic.

On Tuesday (July 2), Paddy shared a touching snap of himself cradling both babies in his arms shortly after they were welcomed into the world. "Happy 11th birthday Leo and Penelope!" he penned, "This picture was taken the day we brought them home from hospital."

He went on to give a touching tribute to his children, writing: "I was terrified but my life has been the better for it ever since. The same can't be said for my hair! Love you my beautiful babies!"

Mum Christine was also one to give Penelope and Leo a heart-warming message on their special day. Sharing a snap to her 740k strong Instagram following, she poured the love over her babies as she wished the best for them in their lives.

"Happy Birthday to my beautiful, earth angel, superstar twins Leo and Penelope," she wrote. "11 years old - words can't describe my love for you, how proud I am, how happy you make me, my babies forever you inspire mummy, motivate me and made me who I am."

Christine and Paddy, who have opted to keep their children out of the public eye, were keen to stress that "they are thriving" now they are getting older. The former Real Housewives of Cheshire star described her kids as having "big brown eyes, the most perfect smiles, they are funny, smart and creative, and full of love".

However, this was not the only day of celebration for the family, as Christine dropped a bombshell to say that it was another family member's big day too. "It's also my mum's birthday!!!" she said.

"I honestly don't know what I would do without my mum, I am so grateful for you, your bond and understanding with my children is so special. We love and appreciate you always."