From correspondents in London, England, 01:41 PM IST

Hollywood couple Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie helped a small French publication beat the world's media to the news of the birth of their twins babies by inviting a reporter to visit their hospital suite.

Other media outlets had to remain outside the hospital but Nice-Matin journalist Jean-Francois Roubound was allowed to report on the news from the couple themselves. He was granted special access to Jolie's obstetrician Dr. Michael Sussman, reports contactmusic.com.

Olivier Biscaye, the editor of the publication, said: 'It was Brad Pitt who chose to give the scoop to Nice-Matin. He said to the doctor that the local media should be the first informed about the birth. We knew we would be the first in the world. Rouboud spoke to the doctor... We had all the details - the names, weight, one boy, one girl.'

Biscaye believes it is his publication's reputation that got them the scoop.

He added: 'Nice-Matin has always chosen not to play the game of paparazzi towards the celebrities who have chosen to live in the region. We respect them, and they do likewise. We let them have a peaceful life. This is why I think Brad and Angelina have chosen to make this gift to Nice-Matin.'

(Staff Writer, © IANS)