The royal heir has arrived – Kensington Palace has announced that the Duchess of Cambridge gave birth to a healthy baby boy this evening
Kate Middleton has given birth to a healthy baby boy, it's been confirmed. The royal heir - who is now third in line to the throne - arrived safely at 4.24pm today, weighing 8lbs 6oz.
In a change to tradition, Kensington Palace issued last-minute change to proceedings, choosing to announce the happy news via a public statement instead of via the royal easel at Buckingham Palace.
Prince William was by Kate Middleton's side when she gave birth at the Lindo Wing of St Mary's Hospital in Paddington.
Clarence House posted to Twitter: 'Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cambridge was safely delivered of a son at 4.24pm.
'The baby weighs 8lbs 6oz. The Duke of Cambridge was present for the birth. The Queen, The Duke of Edinburgh, The Prince of Wales, The Duchess of Cornwall, Prince Harry & families have been told and are delighted.
'Her Royal Highness and her child are both doing well and will remain in hospital overnight.'
It's being reported that Kate Middleton gave birth to her baby boy naturally.
The Duchess of Cambridge was admitted to hospital at 5.30am yesterday morning. She was driven by car along with Prince William and entered the Lindo Wing via a secret back entrance along with heavy security and her private secretary Rebecca Deacon.
It's unknown if or when the families of the pair will visit Kate Middleton and her newborn baby. The Middletons are thought to be present at the hospital already, while the Queen is residing at Buckingham Palace and Prince Charles is touring Yorkshire.
We'll get to see the very first pictures of the royal baby when Kate Middleton and Prince William emerge from the front entrance of the Lindo Wing. They'll pose for photographs for the world's press before heading to their new home at Kensington Palace, Apartment 1A.
We'll bring you the little one's name as soon as we have word from the Palace.
What do you think he'll be called? Let us know in the comments box below. Congrats, Duke and Duchess!
KATE MIDDLETON GOES INTO LABOUR AT KENSINGTON PALACE
WHY KATE MIDDLETON AND PRINCE WILLIAM WILL MAKE AMAZING PARENTS
THE ROYAL BABY'S NEW HOME: SEE THE FIRST PICS
KATE MIDDLETON AND PRINCE WILLIAM'S CUTEST MOMENTS
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