The wait is over… Kate Middleton is in labour!
Kate Middleton has arrived at the Lindo Wing of St. Mary's Hospital!
A tweet from Kensington Palace announced the news a little earlier, saying:
HRH The Duchess of Cambridge was admitted at 06.00hrs to St Mary’s Hospital, Paddington, London and is in the early stages of labour.
— Kensington Palace (@KensingtonRoyal) May 2, 2015
The Telegraph stated that a two-car convoy and a number of police motorcycles had been seen leaving Kate's parents' Buckleberry home yesterday morning, sparking speculation the Duchess was en route to the hospital, although it later transpired the car was most likely for the Middleton family themselves.
Later in the day it was reported that another convoy was heading in the direction of St. Mary's Hospital.
The Duchess will give birth in the hospital's exclusive Lindo Wing, as with her first child.
Kate's due date was first thought to be April 25th, though some reports stated it as April 23rd. Either way, she is a number of days overdue and was expected to be induced this week had she not gone into labour naturally. However an increased police presence was noted outside the hospital earlier today, and protection officers were seen entering the doors of the Lindo Wing in the early hours of this morning.
Unlike with the Duchess' first birth, the world's media have been banned from waiting outside the hospital until the official labour announcement was made. Now that the ban has been lifted, hundreds of photographers and reporters are expected to remain outside the Lindo Wing until the birth announcement and Kate and William's first appearance.
Parking restrictions ahead of Kate's admission began over two weeks ago and this week were extended to May 5th.
This will be the second child for who Duke and Duchess, after they welcomed their son George back in 2013. As with George, Kate and William have chosen not to reveal their second baby's gender to the world until he or she is born.
Kate and William are said to be “hugely grateful for the warm wishes they have received from people" over the last few months, according to a spokesperson.
"They know that people are excited that Prince George will soon have a little brother or sister and it means a great deal to them that so many will be celebrating this important moment for their family," the spokesperson added.
The new royal baby will be fourth in line to the throne, pushing Prince Harry to fifth in line.
Looks like there's a very exciting day ahead for the Royal Family… watch this space for more news!
