A HEARTBROKEN family who lost their five-year-old son to a rare virus have revealed they are expecting a "miracle baby" - on the tot's birthday.

Arlene Smith began the Brightest Star charity after losing Jack just days before his sixth birthday in 2012.

Now the 34-year-old has revealed she and husband Paul will welcome a baby following a successful IVF treatment.

The baby is due to arrive on Christmas Day, the same day as big brother Jack.

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In a Facebook post, Arlene said: "I know how upsetting it can be to see a pregnancy announcement when you have lost a child or want to have a child but for five a half years, many of you have shared the darkest hours of my life so it only seems right to share this little ray of sunshine with you.

“Our little miracle is due on the most special day of the year, his big brother’s birthday.

Glasgow Times:

Arlene shared the picture with the charity's followers

“Jack would have been an incredible big brother and he would have adored his wee brother or sister.”

Arlene shared a picture of the baby's scan next to a babygrow which read: "Handpicked for earth by my big brother in heaven,"

Jack from Renfrew, was staying with dad Derek when he began to develop and cold-like symptoms.

However, within hours the youngster was found unconscious and not breathing.

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He was rushed to Edinburgh via ambulance to receive specialist care.

Tragically, he never regained consciousness after the virus attacked his heart.

Mum Arlene set up the Brightest Star charity to help others cope with bereavement.