Kate Middleton to make criminal complaint over topless photo leak

Lawyers for the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are due in court today to demand action against French Closer magazine

Kate Middleton and Prince William are poised to make a criminal complaint over the topless pictures of Kate Middleton published by French Magazine Closer last week.

Lawyers for the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are due in court today to start legal proceedings, with insiders saying the 'saddened' royal couple want to seek the 'stiffest punishment possible' for the 'grotesque' snaps.

PICS: WILLIAM & KATE RECEIVE SOLOMON ISLANDS WELCOME!

It's not yet known who took the photos of Kate Middleton topless, which have so far been printed by three publications, although it's thought lawyers are working hard to uncover their origin.

William and Kate were photographed as they relaxed by the pool during a stay at the idyllic Chateau d'Autet a historic hunting lodge owned by the Queen's nephew, Viscount Linley, in preparation for their Jubilee tour.

Although the secluded hideaway was thought to offer complete privacy, one eagle-eyed snapper managed to catch a handful of long-lens shots of the couple as they relaxed by the private pool - including pictures of Kate Middleton topless.

Now representatives for Prince William and Kate Middleton have confirmed they will today begin legal proceedings against French Closer magazine, and attempt to stop further publication of the photos.

'We can confirm that a criminal complaint is to be made to the French Prosecution Department tomorrow,' a royal spokesman said yesterday.

'The complaint concerns the taking of photographs of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge whilst on holiday and the publication of those photographs in breach of their privacy.'

Confirming proceedings will take place at a court in Paris, a separate official added: 'It is the first airing and we will be seeking an injunction from them using the pictures. It will lead to a longer court case where damages will be sought.'

Over the weekend, Prince William and Kate Middleton did their best to put the topless photo saga behind them as they visited the Solomon Islands as part of their Diamond Jubilee tour.

'They are not actors, they are as upbeat and as pleased to be on this tour as you can see they are,' one royal insider said of the pair.

'The Royal family motto is to stay calm and carry on.'

What are you thoughts on the latest in the Kate Middleton topless photo scandal? Are the royal couple right to peruse legal action? Let us know in the comments box below…

PRINCE WILLIAM & KATE MIDDLETON'S JUBILEE TOUR ALBUM

READ: KATE MIDDLETON 'SADDENED' BY TOPLESS PHOTO LEAK

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