Kate Middleton Baby Odds Slashed Amid Rumours Of Early Arrival

Bookmakers have slashed the odds on the royal baby's birthday as rumours circulate that the Duchess could go into labour earlier than expected

Kate Middleton baby bets have seen a sudden surge this week resulting in bookmakers slashing the odds on the royal heir's due date.

While the exact date of the baby's arrival has never actually been confirmed by Buckingham Palace, it has – until now – been quoted as 13 July. But rumours are circulating that the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge may have leaked a fake date to the press in order to distract the world's media.

Princess Diana announced that Prince William was due on 1 July 1982, but he was actually born 10 days earlier. Bookmaker Paddy Power has now slashed the odds on Kate Middleton giving birth in the first week of July from 4-1 to 8-1 following a surge of activity amid speculation that Kate has also given a fake due date.

A Paddy Power spokesperson said: 'The imminent arrival has sent a royal bump of joy across the country and it's clear punters love nothing more than a royal flutter.'

Bookmaker William Hill meanwhile, said its latest betting activity suggests that the Duke and Duchess will give birth to a girl on 17 July – four days after the rumoured due date.

A spokesperson for William Hill also added that turnover has trebled in the last week with over £50,000 pounds wagered – which they expect to double in the next week or so.

Kate plans to have a natural labour at the Lindo Wing of St Mary's Hospital in Paddington – the very same hospital where Princess Diana welcomed both Prince William and Prince Harry.

The baby will be delivered by Marcus Setchell, the Queen's gynaecologist and offficials at St James' Palace have appealed to the national press for an 'appropriate level of sensitivity' regarding the birth, revealing: 'This is a very personal matter for the Duke and Duchess. But they also know it's a time to celebrate and many will want to share in their joy.'

Place your bets…

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