The remote Pitcairn Island in the Pacific Ocean - home of the descendants of the HMS Bounty mutineers - has recorded its first birth in 17 years.

Emily Rose Christian was born just before midnight Sunday, September 14, 2003, in the Pitcairn Island Medical Clinic.

Her arrival brings the island's population to nearly 50. The island, which is just one mile wide and two miles long, is administered by Britain from its diplomatic post in New Zealand, about 3,200 miles away.

Baby and mother, Nadine Christian, are both reportedly doing well.

- September 17, 2003