BEIJING, July 10 -- Shane Filan is set to become a father for the third time.

    The Westlife singer - who already has a daughter Nicole, three, and nine-month-old son Patrick with wife Gillian - is thrilled to be adding to his family and revealed the baby is due next year.

    He said: "I know a lot of you have already heard the rumours, but I wanted to confirm to you myself that Gillian and I are expecting another baby.

    "We've been keeping it a complete secret from everyone for a while, and made the announcement at my 30th birthday party on Saturday (04.07.09). The baby's due early next year and we're completely over the moon about it. The thought of becoming a dad for the third time is just amazing!"

    Speaking after Nicole's birth in 2005, Shane said: "It was the most emotional and amazing experience of my life."

    "The baby looks like me. She's got dark hair and is absolutely gorgeous. Gillian will be staying in hospital for a few days and I can't wait to get her and Nicole back home."

    (Source: Chinadaily.com.cn/Agencies)