The Duchess of Cambridge is in the early stages of labour, Kensington Palace has confirmed this morning.

Kate - who is thought to be around one week overdue - was admitted to the private Lindo Wing of St Mary's in Paddington, West London, at around 6am this morning. She arrived by car with her husband Prince William by her side.

'Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cambridge has been admitted this morning to St Mary’s Hospital, Paddington, London in the early stages of labour,' ran the official statement. 'The Duchess travelled by car from Kensington Palace to the Lindo Wing at St Mary’s Hospital with the Duke of Cambridge.'

The baby is, of course, the first child of the couple, who married in April 2011.

The pregnancy was announced on 3 December 2012, when Kate was admitted to hospital before the 12-week mark, suffering from acute morning sickness.

She bounced back to work throughout her pregnancy – and stylishly, too, in labels including Mulberry, Topshop, Hobbs and her beloved McQueen.

Said a spokesperson for the couple after Kate went on maternity leave last month: ‘While it is a deeply personal and private event, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge realise this is a time of national celebration and that there will be vast interest in the baby. They realise many people will want to share in their happiness.’

It's understood that no further announcements will be made until the official birth announcement.

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