TEACHERS will be bracing themselves for an influx of little Harrys and Lilys in a few years’ time.

According to the Office for National Statistics, they are the most popular names for newborns in the region.

A spokesman said the influence of famous figures or celebrities are thought to have the greatest impact on the choice of names.

“Although factors such as religion, cultural or ethnic identities of the parents, and names of family, friends or fictional characters can also play a part,” he added.

Nationally, Harry and Amelia are the most popular choices.

Ipswich cake decorator Lucy Abbott is not surprised by Harry taking the number one spot in the east.

“You get common names like Hilary, Stephen, Carol or Emily. But we had Harry twice last week,” she said.

Ms Abbott works alongside manager Kersty Barrett at The Cake Shop in Old Foundry Road. Ms Barrett says names have definitely changed over the six years she has been decorating cakes.

“We used to get Bobs, Philips or Bills, but now you see names that are more unusual and different,” she said.