Apollo to Wren: 14 of the most unusual boys’ and girls’ names given to babies born in the UK during 2014

Website BabyCentre has compiled charts of the most popular boys’ and girls’ names for this year.

Other than the possible surprise to some of Muhammad being number one for boys, the rest of the most frequently picked names are very predictable.

Oliver and Jack make it into the top three for boys, while the girls’ list is headed by Sophia, Emily and Lily.

Further down, in fact nowhere near the top 100, are some much more distinctive and strange monikers which have been given to just a select few newborns.

Here are some of the most ‘special’ names given to lucky children in at least one case in 2014.

Girls’ names:

Logan: It’s been popular for boys in the past, but now it’s being used for girls too. Of Celtic origin, the Scottish Gaelic meaning is "little cove" or "small hollow", while the Irish is "meadow". In the US, common nicknames include Gunny, Logi and Low.

Wren: Derived from the Old English Wrenna, Wren simply means "wren", like the small songbird which is described as ‘dumpy’ and having a ‘remarkably loud voice’ by the RSPB.

London: Perhaps parents have been inspired by time spent in England's capital or by children's TV presenter and comedian London Hughes, known to her fans as Miss London? Sadly, we couldn’t find any examples of children named Penge or Thamesmead.

Phoenix: This derives from the Greek word meaning ‘crimson’ so maybe some very red-faced girls have been born. The Harry Potter films and books might also explain its use.

Indigo: The English word for the purplish blue colour and dye is being used for girls. Maybe some parents have enjoyed nights out at indigo at The O2. A couple of girls named Blue have also been registered, with some celeb or specifically Beyonce bandwagon-jumping going on.

Genesis: Maybe you see Genesis and think ‘birth’ or book of the Bible. Many will see Genesis and think soft rock band featuring Phil Collins and Peter Gabriel. The latter hasn’t stopped some mums and dads when naming their daughters.

Boys’ names:

Prince and King: With all the fuss over royal babies this past couple of years, it’s not surprising some parents have opted for regal sounding names. These grand names give baby boys a lot to live up to though.

Junior: This American classic was brought into the UK mainstream by Katie Price after she chose it for the son she had with Peter Andre. If you’re looking for a classy name for a child, following Katie Price is always a good start.

Hendrix: Synonymous with the rock legend Jimi, this is a relatively common surname but hasn't often been used as a first name. It’s arguably slightly better than Slash.

Braxton: Perhaps when reading up about pregnancy, Braxton Hicks has stuck in some mums’ minds.

Buzz: One other pair of proud parents have followed McBusted singer Tom Fletcher is naming a son after the Toy Story character Buzz Lightyear.

Apollo: Another celeb-inspired name, this time prompted by singer Gwen Stefani's son. It’s been twice in this country this year.

Do unusual names help children stand out from the crowd or put them at risk of ridicule? Do you think it’s sweet or tacky when parents dream up odd names for their babies? Have you heard of any names weirder than those featured here, and would you ever give your own child a rare or completely new first name? Add your comments below.