Prince William and Kate Middleton are engaged and will marry in 2011 | Daily Mail Online Couple became engaged in Kenya last month William asked her father for her hand The Royal wedding will be in spring or summer Kate and William will live in north Wales once married Middletons: 'We think William is wonderful' Pair's first ever interview to be broadcast tonight William is 'excited and thrilled', says Cameron Divorce lawyers are already talking pre-nups Prince William and Kate Middleton are engaged and will marry next year, Clarence House announced today. William, 28, proposed during a holiday in Kenya last month after asking Kate's father for his daughter's hand following a marathon eight-year courtship. Kate, also 28, had been dubbed 'Waity Katy' amid criticism she was hanging on for a proposal and did not have a proper job but now her wait is finally over. The couple will appear in public later today, when the Princess-in-waiting is expected to show off her engagement ring. Their first ever interview will be broadcast tonight. David Cameron said William is 'extremely excited' and 'thrilled' as he appeared outside No10 to welcome the news this lunchtime.

Scroll down for video Engaged at last: Prince William and Kate Middleton arrive together at a friend's wedding last month. It was significant because usually they arrive at events separately Their royal wedding will be the biggest event since Prince Charles and Diana got married in 1981. It is hoped the ceremony will give a huge boost to the nation and the economy as crippling public sector spending cuts hit home.

RELATED ARTICLES TIMELINE TO THE ROYAL ROMANCE SEPTEMBER 2001: Prince William and Kate Middleton meet at St Andrews University MARCH 2002: William pays £200 to watch Kate modelling a sheer black lace dress in a fashion show CHRISTMAS 2003: Rumours abound that the pair have started dating MARCH 2004: The romance is exposed after they are pictured on the ski slopes of Klosters together JULY 2005: The pair enjoy a romantic holiday at the Lewa Downs game reserve in Kenya JANUARY 2006: William is photographed kissing Kate in public for the first time during a skiing break in Klosters DECEMBER 2006: Kate makes her most significant appearance to date as she turns up to watch William graduate as an Army officer at Sandhurst APRIL 2007: William and Kate are confirmed to have split but they secretly reunite within weeks OCTOBER 2007: The couple are pictured back together for the first time APRIL 2008: Kate is at William's graduation ceremony from the RAF, suggesting the couple's relationship is now permanent and has the approval of

 senior royals JANUARY 2010: Kate watches as William graduates on an advanced helicopter training course and receives his flying badge from the Prince of Wales FEBRUARY 2010: William says 'You'll have to wait a while yet' when asked about the prospect of a wedding OCTOBER 2010: The couple are pictured in public together at a friend's wedding, sending speculation of an engagement to fever pitch NOVEMBER 16: The couple's engagement is announced by Clarence House.

Bookies have made August 13th the early favourite for the wedding date and it is likely to take place at Westminster Abbey. It is claimed personnel at the Abbey have already been contacted about a royal wedding in the second week of August, although St Paul's and Windsor Castle are other potential venues. The Queen and the Queen Mother were both married in the Abbey but it also carries painful memories of William's mother's funeral in 1997. Charles and Diana's fairytale ceremony was at St Paul's which has also been the recent location for major royal celebrations such as the Queen's 80th birthday. In a full statement, Clarence House said: 'The Prince of Wales is delighted to announce the engagement of Prince William to Miss Catherine Middleton. 'The wedding will take place in the Spring or Summer of 2011, in London. Further details about the wedding day will be announced in due course. 'Prince William and Miss Middleton became engaged in October during a private holiday in Kenya. 'Prince William has informed The Queen and other close members of his family. Prince William has also sought the permission of Miss Middleton's father.

'Following the marriage, the couple will live in North Wales, where Prince William will continue to serve with the Royal Air Force.' The engagement was also officially announced simultaneously on Facebook and Twitter, coming days after the Queen signed up to the social networking site. A Buckingham Palace spokesman said: 'Both the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh are absolutely delighted for them both.' Prince Charles, in Dorset, said he was 'thrilled' and joked that the couple had been 'practicing long enough'. Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall, on her way into a central London theatre this afternoon, said: 'It's brilliant, isn't it? It's absolutely wonderful.' Michael and Carole Middleton appeared outside their home in Berkshire shortly before 4pm to speak about their daughter's relationship in public for the very first time. Mr Middleton said: 'Carole and I are absolutely delighted by today's announcement and thrilled at the prospect of a wedding some time next year. 'As you know Catherine and Prince William have been going out together for quite a number of years which has been great for us because we have got to know William very well. 'We all think he is wonderful and we are extremely fond of him.

They make a lovely couple, they are great fun to be with, and we've had a lot of laughs together. We wish them every happiness for the future.' Young love: The couple at RAF Cranwell in 2008 when William received his wings 'Absolutely delighted': Kate Middleton's parents Michael and Carole outside their Berkshire home today Earl Spencer, William's uncle and the brother of Diana, said: 'It's wonderful news. Very exciting. My family are all thrilled for them both.' Mr Cameron and Labour leader Ed Miliband also said they were 'delighted' for the couple. WHERE WILL THEY MARRY? WESTMINSTER ABBEY is considered the frontrunner. The Queen and the Queen Mother both married there but it also holds painful memories because of Diana's funeral. Steeped in more than a thousand years of history, the gothic London Abbey has been at the forefront of major royal ceremonies for generation after generation. The Queen wed Prince Philip of Greece there as a 21-year-old Princess on November 20 1947. The Queen Mother, then Lady Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon, married the Duke of York, later George VI, there on April 26 1923.

Her funeral in 2002 as also at the Abbey. ST PAUL'S is where Charles and Diana married in 1981 (right) and has been the focus for many royal celebrations. The iconic building built by Sir Christoper Wren has recently held thanksgiving services for the Queen's Golden Jubilee and her 80th birthday. It staged the funerals of Lord Nelson, the Duke of Wellington and Sir Winston Churchill, the peace services marking the end of the First and Second World Wars and more recently the Service of Remembrance and Commemoration for the September 11 terrorist attacks. WINDSOR CASTLE is considered unlikely because it is out of London and will not allow a huge celebration at the heart of the capital. However, it would prove easier for security because it could be cut off by a ring of steel more readily than locations in central London. Prince Charles and Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall, married at the Guildhall there in 2005 before a party at the Castle (below). The Prime Minister was told of the engagement during the Cabinet meeting this morning and relayed it to ministers.

He emerged from No10 just before 1pm to express his joy at the announcement and revealed he had just spoken to the Prince. 'I spoke to Prince William a few moments ago and passed on my congratulations. He was obviously extremely excited about the news and thrilled about what lies in store. It was wonderful to have that word with him and pass on my best wishes,' he said. Mr Cameron added: 'This is incredibly exciting news and I am sure the whole country will want to pass on their congratulations.' Recounting how he was handed a note with the news during the Cabinet meeting, he said: 'There was a great cheer that went up and a banging on the table.' He said: 'It's great to have a piece of unadulterated good news that everyone can celebrate and be happy for them. I am sure it will be something when the country will come together. I remember when William's mother got married, I slept on the Mall that night and joined in the celebrations.

I'm sure lots of people will want to celebrate in lots of different ways.' He added: 'As well as this being a great moment for national celebration, I think we also have to remember that this is two young people who love each other who have made this announcement, who are looking forward to their wedding, and we must give them plenty of space to think about the future and what they are about to do.' Kate's security detail will now be instantly upgraded to give her round-the-clock protection, befitting a Princess in waiting. Earlier this month, the Daily Mail exclusively revealed how her parents were guests at a private shooting party on the Queen's Scottish estate. The move was seen as highly symbolic and an indication that the middle-class Middleton family were now firmly being welcomed into the royal fold. It is now clear that Kate and William were already engaged at the time of the visit to Birkhall, Prince Charles' private residence on the Balmoral estate. The invitation to Mr Middleton, a former airline despatcher, and ex-air hostess Carole shows William was keen to start off on the right foot with his future in-laws.

Out on the town: William and Kate after a party at Mahiki in 2006 at a time they appeared to be going strong Early days: The Prince and Kate at a rugby sevens event in 2003 when they first started going out Kate and William first met at St Andrews University where they were both studying history of art and lived close to each other in the halls of residence during their first year. Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer on their engagement day, February 24 1981 It was at a charity fashion show in March 2002, when Kate modelled a sheer black lace dress, that she was said to have first turned the Prince's head. They moved in together with friends in 2002 but are not thought to have become a proper item until around Christmas 2003. Their romance was exposed on a skiing holiday in Klosters in 2004 but William famously proclaimed: 'I don't want to get married until I'm at least 28 or maybe 30' - setting the stage for a very long wait.

They split up in April 2007 as William became increasingly involved in his career in the Armed Forces but were secretly united within weeks. In the past few months, the pair have been 'road-testing' married life on Anglesey, in Wales, where William works as a search-and-rescue pilot - although officially Kate is still living at her parents. There was a significant shift last month when they appeared in public together for a friend's wedding. They notably walked into the ceremony in Gloucestershire side by side when usually they would take pains to avoid being pictured together. The last time Kate was seen before that had been in July and it is thought she had been kept in the background ahead of the engagement announcement. Travel chiefs are already saying the wedding will be a massive boost to UK tourism ahead of the Queen's Diamond Jubilee and the Olympics in 2012. VisitEngland chief executive James Berresford said: 'The wedding next year will mean that once again the eyes of the world will be turned to our nation.

'We will have a wonderful opportunity to showcase all that is best about the country - its heritage and its history and what being English is all about.' A very modern engagement: Clarence House also announced the news on Facebook and Twitter With their engagement only just announced, divorce lawyers are already circling to warn that Kate should sign a pre-nuptial agreement before walking down the aisle. A recent decision by the Supreme Court has strengthened the validity of pre-nups and effectively made them binding in English law. KATE 'THE COMMONER' Today’s wedding announcement puts Kate Middleton in line to become the first commoner to be queen since Anne Hyde wed the Duke of York, later James II, in 1660. Royal consorts have traditionally come from the ranks of Britain’s aristocracy or from other European royal houses. But numbered among Middleton's ancestors are Northumbrian miners and Kent builders' labourers. Her mother, Carole, was formerly a British Airways flight attendant and her father, Michael, also once worked for BA making sure flights left on time and with the correct cargo. They met while working for BA and started their married life in a flat in Slough, just across the river from the future in-laws.

But it is the family business Party Pieces, launched by Mrs Middleton from their home in Berkshire, which founded the family's wealth and gave their daughter entry into higher social circles Top divorce expert Isabel Thornton said today: 'In a more typical scenario, where two 28 year olds are soon to be married and a substantial disparity of wealth exists, one set of parents would undoubtedly be marching their offspring to see the lawyers as soon as possible. 'However, whether the Royals will do the same remains to be seen. With the risk of setting a precedent in mind, I am sure careful consideration will be paid to the issue before any final decision is made, particularly given the Anglican belief in the sanctity of marriage.' Diana's private secretary Patrick Jephson added: 'There will be a tidal wave of sentimental slush, but I believe what I'm saying. You've got be practical.

If she was my sister, I'd tell her to get a good pre-nup.' Mr Jephson urged Kate to carve a definite role for herself and refuse to be 'a wife, a pretty face' and warned: 'Kate's not just going into a marriage, she's going into a business.' 'She has to agree on her position especially in relation to her future husband William. She needs to know what's expected of her. Is it going to be a joint operation?' On her prospects of a happier life as a royal than Diana, he said: 'She is much older than Diana was. She's got more experience. She knows William better.' He referred to the night before the Princess's wedding when she was told: 'You can't back out, your face is on the tea towels' saying Kate should 'screw the tea towels'. 'If you've got serious reservations, don't go through with it. It's such a public thing. If they don't get this one right, what's going to happen to the whole institution in the long run?' However, he added: 'If you get it right, it's the best job in the world. It can be fantastic.

They should set off with the firm intention of making it the happiest job in the world.' THE DRESS Kate Middleton's wedding dress will be a demure, high-necked, hand-embroidered, lace couture gown, a bridal expert predicted today. Peta Hunt, fashion director at You & Your Wedding magazine, suggested the new royal bride would opt for something traditional, but with a modern twist, coupled with a crown or tiara. 'I think it will be hand embroidered and I think with lace,' she said. She also suggested the royal bride would pick a fishtail style gown, rather than a large full skirt. 'I would say a fishtail, not in a sex goddess way, but straighter at the front. I think she plays down everything,' She said the bridal gown - which is expected to be couture - would have to suit the venue. 'The dress would have to be a lot grander than most of the dresses we see in real life. She's got a great figure so in a way she can carry off most dresses.' Miss Hunt predicted Kate would wear her hair up on this occasion, possibly in a low chignon, to 'show off all those jewels'.

William is likely to wear military uniform, but Miss Hunt said: 'It would be nice if he was dashing in tails.' Dressmakers will copy Kate's creation as soon as it is seen publicly. Miss Hunt said her choice would influence bridalwear 'for years to come'. THE WEDDING RING If Kate follows royal tradition, her wedding ring is likely to be fashioned from a nugget of Welsh gold. Since the custom was started by the Queen Mother in 1923, Welsh gold has been used for royal brides ever since. The Queen Mother's wedding ring, the Queen's in 1947, Princess Margaret's in 1960, the Princess Royal's in 1973, Diana's in 1981 and Camilla's in 2005 were all made from the same nugget. The gold came from the Clogau St David's mine at Bontddu in North Wales. There is now only a minute sliver - one gramme - of the original nugget left.

But in November 1981, the British Royal Legion presented the Queen with a 36-gramme piece of 21-carat Welsh gold for future royal wedding rings. Part of this gold went into making Sarah, Duchess of York's ring in 1986. The Duchess of Cornwall's wedding ring was also crafted from Welsh gold from the Clogau St David's mine and the river Mawdach in the Kings Forest. It was handmade in court style by Wartski and the precious metal was supplied by Cambrian Goldfields Limited. A HOUSE FIT FOR A PRINCE AND PRINCESS? Prince William Kate Middleton engaged | Royal Wedding | reaction BBC bid for broadcast rights Prince Charles quipped "they've been practising for long enough" and his wife Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall, said the news was "wicked". But while a few callers to talk back radio shows in Australia were expressing "who cares?" about the news of Prince William's engagement to Kate Middleton, there were plenty who were delighted. Governor-General Quentin Bryce sent a message of "heartfelt congratulations and best wishes" to the prince and his fiancee.

Related Content Finally, a wedding date for Kate "Your Royal Highness, your announcement has warmed our nation's heart. "I am sure that Australians look forward with anticipation and excitement to hearing of your wedding preparations as they unfold. It is a unifying time of much joy and celebration." Advertisement Prime Minister Julia Gillard said the couple had Australia's "best wishes and support" and that Ms Middleton "will no doubt strengthen [Prince William's] remarkable reputation". "The prince is well known for his charity work and for his ongoing service in the British Royal Air Force. "Prince William left a strong impression on many Australians during his visit at the beginning of the year." The office of the Opposition Leader Tony Abbott said he would comment during question time in Parliament today. NSW Premier Kristina Keneally said she "had a nice smile" when she found out about the engagement. "Everyone knows we Keneallys support a republic, but I had a nice smile when I heard the news. They are a lovely couple and would make a wonderful future King and Queen." Liberal MP Stuart Robert, of the seat of Fadden in the Gold Coast, said it was "tremendous we're actually seeing the next generation of monarchs actually go to the altar".

"I think we should absolutely and utterly embrace the current tradition." 'Delighted and thrilled' "Delighted", "brilliant" and "thrilled" appear to be the choice words for the day. The Queen said she was "absolutely delighted". Prince's William's younger brother Harry said in a statement that he was "delighted that my brother has popped the question!" "It means I get a sister, which I have always wanted." Sophie, Prince Edward's wife and Prince William's aunt, said "it's absolutely thrilling" and she "couldn't be more excited". "I think everybody's absolutely thrilled and we all wish them all the luck and love in the world," she said about the royal family's reaction. Britain's Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg said he was "thrilled to hear the fantastic news of Prince William and Kate Middleton's engagement".

"[My wife] Miriam and I would like to send our very best wishes to the happy couple ahead of their big day." 'Cheers everyone up' British Prime Minister David Cameron, who did not hide his pleasure in having something positive to announce given the country's severe budget cuts, sought to demonstrate his fondness for royal weddings, saying that as a 14-year-old "when William's mother got married I slept on the Mall that night and joined in the celebrations". London's mayor Boris Johnson commented in his usual manner, saying that "in a weird way, it cheers everyone up". Prince Charles quipped: "It makes me feel very old. Thank you very much." Camilla rolled out her "wicked" line as she left a London theatre after seeing the musical Wicked. "It's the most brilliant news. I'm just so happy and so are they." Ms Middleton's parents Carole and Michael stuck to the script, reading from a statement that they were "delighted by today's announcement and thrilled at the prospect of a wedding some time next year". "As you know Catherine and Prince William have been going out together for quite a number of years which is great for us because we've got to know William really well.

"We all think he's wonderful and we're extremely fond of him. They make a lovely couple, they're great fun to be with and we've had a a lot of laughs together. We wish them every happiness for the future." Not everyone's thrilled But, like some of those callers to talk back radio, not everyone was thrilled about the possible cost of a royal wedding in these tight times. "The fact that in 2010, a wedding announcement to the other side of the world between two young English people stands to impact on our own constitutional arrangements is, however, simply absurd," the Australian Republican Movement's chairman Mike Keating said in a statement this morning. The movement called for a republican debate, adding that Mr Cameron and his cabinet's reaction "illustrates just how remote these events are to Australia and our identity as a modern and independent nation". British pro-republican group Republic said: "I'm sure this is very happy news for those who know the couple, but it is a private matter and we mustn't see the government wasting limited resources paying for a major set-piece event. "William is not the head of state, there is no guarantee he will ever be head of state.

This is a private occasion which I'm sure the palace will want to milk for maximum PR effect. It is not for the taxpayer to pay for any part of this event; the Windsors must cough up." Bookmakers Ladbrokes also had money on their minds. "We're delighted for the couple but we've shelled out a fortune. All our shops around the royal residences have been teeming with punters looking to back a November announcement," said David Williams of Ladbrokes. "We've been caught with our pants down and there's not much we can do apart from grit out teeth and pay out. It's obvious that people knew more about this than us!" Prince William to marry Kate Middleton – Channel 4 News The couple, both 28, are set to marry in the spring or summer of 2011 in London, with the occasion rumoured to be declared a national holiday. Prince William proposed on holiday in Kenya last month. Clarence House said in a statement today: “The Prince of Wales is delighted to announce the engagement of Prince William to Miss Catherine Middleton.” Buckingham Palace said that the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh are “absolutely delighted” for the couple.

Prince William, who recently made a trip to Afghanistan to honour the fallen , sought permission from Miss Middleton’s father, Clarence House said. Diana’s engagement ring It has emerged that the Prince gave Kate Middleton his mother’s engagement ring, which he’d hidden in his rucksack during a “romantic break” in Kenya last month. The Prince proposed with the blue sapphire and diamond ring that his father, the Prince of Wales, gave to Diana, Princess of Wales, in February 1981. The couple declined to say whether William went down on one knee, but Kate said the moment had been “very romantic and very personal”. William explained why he’d given Kate his mother’s ring:”It was my way of making sure my mother didn’t miss out on today and the excitement, and the fact that we’re going to spend the rest of our lives together.” William and Kate's wedding: who will pay? The couple, who met as students at the University of St Andrews in 2001, will live in north Wales once married. Prince William, who has served with the Royal Air Force in Wales since earlier this year, will continue in his role for the next three years.

His brother Prince Harry said of the engagement: “I am delighted that my brother has popped the question! It means I get a sister, which I have always wanted.” Prime Minister David Cameron said the announcement was “incredibly exciting news” and said the whole country would want to extend their best wishes to the happy couple. “I was given the news in a cabinet meeting,” he said. “I was passed a piece of paper and announced the news in the middle of the cabinet meeting and there was a great cheer went up and a great banging of the table. “It’s a great day for our country, a great day for the Royal family and obviously a great day for Prince William and for Kate.” Prime Minister David Cameron. “As well as being a great moment for national celebration, we also have to remember this is two young people who love each other who have made this announcement, who are looking forward to their wedding, and we must give them plenty of space to think about the future and what they are about to do.

Royal weddings The bridegroom only agreed to the marriage to pay off his debts and was so appalled when he saw (and smelt) the bride that he spent most of the marriage night in an alcoholic stupor with his head in the grate. Nevertheless he managed to father a daughter. It was probably the only time the couple slept together. David Starkey looks at the latest Royal wedding in a line of colourful nuptials . “But it’s a great day for our country, a great day for the Royal family and obviously a great day for Prince William and for Kate.” The Prime Minister also admitted he slept on the Mall the night that Prince Charles married Diana, and “joined in the celebrations”. Intense speculation The couple’s forthcoming wedding has been subject to intense speculation since they began dating in 2003, despite a brief split in 2007. Set to take place in London, a wedding at Westminster Abbey is anticipated – although the funeral of Prince Williams’ mother Diana took place at the Abbey, as did the Queen Mother’s. The Queen married the Duke of Edinburgh at Westminster in 1947. The Abbey holds around 2,000 guests.

Meanwhile, William’s parents Prince Charles and Diana married at St Paul’s Cathedral in 1981 – which can hold up to 3,500 people. Prince William and Kate Middleton: a timeline January 2006: William is photographed kissing Kate in public for the first time during a skiing break in Klosters. Days later, William begins his Army training at the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst. March 2006: Kate, without William, is invited into the Royal Box at the Cheltenham Gold Cup. Also there is the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall. April 2006: Kate's lawyers make complaints to newspapers and picture agencies after she is photographed on a shopping trip. April 2006: The pair holiday on the Caribbean hideaway island of Mustique. They are snapped on a yacht together. August 2006: They holiday in Ibiza ahead of William's final term at Sandhurst. November 2006: Kate gets a job as an accessories buyer with Jigsaw, the fashion chain owned by friends of her family. Former high street retailer Woolworths designs a souvenir wedding plate - several years too soon.

December 2006: Kate makes her most significant appearance to date as she turns up to watch William graduate as an Army officer at Sandhurst. January 2007: Kate's lawyers try to persuade newspaper editors to stop using paparazzi pictures of her after she is confronted by a media scrum outside her home on her 25th birthday. There are reports that legal action is being considered. March 2007: William starts Army training at Camp Bovington, Dorset. The pair are pictured at the Cheltenham Gold Cup together. Kate makes her first official complaint to the Press Complaints Commission over alleged harassment in connection with a photo used in the Daily Mirror. She later settles the matter after an apology from the paper. April 14, 2007: William and Kate are confirmed to have split. June 2007: Speculation mounts that the couple are back together after they are seen kissing and dancing together at an Army party. July 1, 2007: Kate joins William at the Wembley Stadium Concert for Diana, fuelling rumours that the couple are back together.

July 11 2007: The Media and Sport Select Committee accuses the Press Complaints Commission of failing to help protect Kate from "clear and persistent harassment" by the paparazzi. October 2007: William and Middleton are photographed out on the town together for the first time since their split. Kate joins William at Balmoral for a private weekend with Charles and Camilla. At the same time, the Prince voices concern after he and Kate are "aggressively" pursued in their car by the paparazzi. August 2007: Security concerns force Kate to pull out of a Dover to Calais Chinese dragon boat race. April 11, 2008: Kate appears at William's side at his graduation ceremony from the RAF, suggesting the couple's relationship is now permanent and has the approval of senior royals. May 17, 2008: Kate attends the wedding of William's cousin, Peter Phillips, to Autumn Kelly. William attends another wedding in Africa. June 16, 2008: Kate attends the Order of the Garter service at Windsor Castle to watch William taking part.

It is the first time she has appeared at a formal and official Royal public occasion. June 22, 2008: William marks his 26th birthday by playing side by side with his brother Harry in a charity polo match, with Kate watching from the sidelines. The celebrations continued with a private party at Prince Charles's home at Highgrove. July 19, 2008: Kate attends her second royal wedding of the year without William. She is present at the marriage between Lady Rose Windsor. Christmas and New Year 2008: The couple holiday at the royal retreat of Birkhall, the Prince of Wales's home on the Queen's private Balmoral estate in Scotland. May 2009: The couple are pictured together for the first time in five months after being spotted at a polo match. December 2009: The Queen's lawyers warn newspapers against publishing paparazzi photos of the Royal family, fuelling speculation William and Kate are to wed. January 2010: The pair take a New Year break at Birkhall.

January 15, 2010: Kate watches as William graduates on an advanced helicopter training course and receives his flying badge from the Prince of Wales. February 2010: William remarks "You'll have to wait a while yet" when asked by a member of the public about the prospect of a royal wedding. March 2010: The couple holiday with Kate's family on the slopes of Courchevel, France. March 2010: Kate gives an insight into her childhood in an online question and answer session on her parents' firm's website. The link is later removed after the details are reported. October 2010: Kate and William are photographed attending the Gloucestershire wedding of a friend. November 16: The couple's engagement announced in a brief statement released by Clarence House. BBC News - As it happened: Royal engagement As it happened: Royal engagement No need to reload page, content updates automatically. 1930: It's time to wrap up our live coverage now. Thanks very much for all your contributions.

1924: Tim Sharp from St Albans, Herts: "The UK and the BBC needs to get away from non-news such as this and recognise that this country needs a serious debate about the monarchy and whether we can afford to subsidise the Windsor family." Send us your comments 1921: Lesley, from Sheffield: "Congratulations! Your mother meant the world to me, and she will be with you in spirit" Send us your comments 1920: "It's obviously nerve-wracking as I don't know the ropes, but I'm willing to learn quickly" - that's Kate's promise as she enters not just a marriage, but what amounts to a job for life. 1916: William, ever the gentleman, said he waited this long to give Kate the chance to back out if she realised she didn't want to be part of the Royal Family. 1914: On a serious note, Kate says Princess Diana was "an inspirational woman" and she would have loved to have met her. But William points out that "no-one is trying to fill my mother's shoes." 1912: Being friends first was a massive advantage, says William.

"I'm obviously extremely funny and she loves that," he says modestly. 1910: Of the break-up a couple of years ago, William says they were very young, while Kate said it made her stronger and she learnt a lot about herself, even though she wasn't particularly happy with it. 1908: Domestic details have also be revealed, such as when William tried to impress Kate by cooking for her in their shared house at university. Burnt dishes, overflowing pots... sounds like typical students. 1907: Kate says the tale of her having a picture of the prince on her bedroom wall when she was a young girl was not true. It was in fact a poster for Levi jeans, she says. 1905: And what about the pitter-patter of tiny royal feet? William says they'll work on the marriage bit first, before thinking about children. 1905: The sequence of events after the proposal is revealed - William asked Kate first before gaining permission from her father. His thinking was that Mr Middleton couldn't say no if his daughter had already said yes.

1903: The prince described the pair as like ducks - calm on the surface but paddling furiously underneath - as they kept their engagement secret for three weeks. 1902: William has revealed that the engagement ring travelled in the royal rucksack for a few weeks before he chose the right time to propose. He knew he'd be in trouble if he lost it, so he held onto it tightly. 1901: William said he and Kate had been talking about marriage for a while before he proposed in Kenya. Kate said it was "a total shock" when it came. 1900: William and Kate have given their first interview as an engaged couple, revealing details of the engagement, life at university, how their love blossomed and hopes for the future. 1854: S Warburton, in Stoke-on-Trent, writes: "My husband and I married on the same day as Sophie and Prince Edward.

As my daughter is getting married next June 24th it would be great if the date turned out to be the same, but it is on a Friday, but fingers crossed." Send us your comments 1852: Carol Ashman from Atlanta, USA tells us: "Even though I emigrated to the US 20 years ago, it is hard to avoid the media frenzy and interest in the Royal family. I am listening to BBC news live on my laptop right now! Good luck to both of them." Send us your comments 1848: Max Clifford, PR supremo, says the increasing media pressure will be easy for William, seeing as he was born into it, but a "minefield" for Kate. "When she breathes in, and breathes out, she's got to get permission." Certainly sounds tough. 1844: Sarah, in Bournemouth, writes: "Absolutely wonderful news.

It's been great to have a day where the media have focused on something positive for a change; I was starting to get doom fatigue." Send us your comments 1842: Sandie Dawe from Visit Britain is very pleased with the timing of the wedding, ahead of the Olympics in 2012 and the Queen's jubilee. Royalty is a big draw, especially for Chinese, Brazilian and Malaysian tourists, apparently. 1832: Jackson Hammond tweets: "This is all well and good and congratulations but do we really need such fuss and such massive news coverage? #royalwedding" 1818: Michelle Piercy, from Wirral, writes: "Shame to overshadow this lovely news with comparisons to his parents' unhappy union. William seems to be a level-headed fellow and truly in love. Good luck to both of them." Send us your comments 1816: The BBC's George Alagiah reporting from Camp Bastion, Afghanistan, where William attended the Remembrance Sunday event, says the camp is a place of huge patriotism, and everyone welcomed the news, even so far from home.

1812: Jules Knight was at St Andrews with the couple, where they all studied history of art, and he's very excited about the engagement, but told the BBC that like any young couple William and Kate had "bad patches... but managed to patch it all up". Now they're deeply in love, he says. 1804: David Mvoi, from Kenya, writes: I'm delighted for William and Kate, especially for the Kenyan connection to their engagement. They're very welcome to our beautiful country for their honeymoon." Send us your comments 1756: Cassandra Taylor, from Minneapolis, US, writes: "I am not sure why we care, but we do! The idea of a royal family is so appealing. I think Kate and William make a perfect couple, and it is fun to get excited over waiting and watching Kate become a princess." Send us your comments 1751: An eagled-eye observer tells me Kate's dress is from her favourite designer Daniella Issa Helayel. Could she be the one to create the wedding dress? We'll have to wait and see.

1745: Ian Lloyd, royal photographer and author, says Kate has got "star quality" just like Diana. He thinks she's going to inject some "zest, life, and glamour" into the royal family. 1742: John W Zink, from Flagstaff, Arizona, US, writes: "Smashing! In 1981 I was flying Harriers with 1(F) SQN at RAF Wittering. I remember the excitement of Prince Charles and Diana's wedding, it was electrifying. We had a fabulous block party at Wittering Village. So nice to have happy news for 2011." Send us your comments 1737: "We have a great fun time together, take the mickey out of each other a lot and she's got plenty of habits that make me laugh, that I tease her about," Prince William said. For her part, his bride-to-be said: "Over the years, William has really looked after me.

He's treated me very well as the great, loving boyfriend he is." 1734: David Elward tweets: "Kate Middleton: joining the Royal Family is a "daunting prospect." Lessons learned with sensible honesty." 1730: Katie Turner-Samuels tweets: "Royal wedding - how adorable! what an amazing ring! Kate gorgeous at press con. William very coolly handled" 1727: A bit more on that ring. Prince William explained to the assembled media: "As you may recognise now it is my mother's engagement ring, so of course, it is very special to me, and Kate is very special to me now as well. It is only right the two are put together." 1723: Maggiebob tweets: "I only want to know one thing about the royal wedding - do we get a day off work for it?" 1718: Royal commentator James Whittaker says giving Kate his mother's ring is an "absolutely beautiful" gesture on William's part - "a real sign of love and affection". 1715: Prince William laughed when asked why it had taken him so many years to pop the question.

"The timing is right now, we are both very, very happy," he added. 1712: Gulu Bati Wario, in Hola-Kenya, writes: "Bravo William and Kate for marriage is a lifetime achievement. May your engagement bring honour to the Royalty and the country as a whole." Send us your comments 1708: ByRichard tweets: "I think the cynicism around the royal wedding is a shame, but I can see where it stems from. Two people in love or political distraction? " 1706: The BBC's Daniella Relph, who was at the royal press conference, says she was surprised at how at ease Kate looked in such an intimidating atmosphere - althought she kept her arm firmly linked in William's throughout. It's really the first time we've ever seen them interact with, or talk about each other, our correspondent adds. 1703: Prince William explains why he chose to give Kate his mother Diana's engagment ring. "It was my way of making sure my mother didn't miss out on today," he says. 1701: And now Miss Middleton's voice - heard for perhaps the first time on a public stage like this.

Asked how she feels about the prospect of marrying into the royal family, she says: "It's quite a daunting prospect, but hopefully I'll take it in my stride. William is a great teacher." 1659: Here we go - the first pictures of the happy couple. Amid a blaze of photographers' flash bulbs, William and Kate look extremely happy. For all you fashionistas, she is wearing a bright blue dress, fitted at the waist and then flared out to the knee. 1657: The BBC's Daniella Relph has been at the press conference with William and Kate. She says we still have no date for the big day and William wouldn't reveal whether he went down on one knee for the proposal, but Kate said the moment was "very special". 1654: If the live page has whetted your appetite for more, we've put together a special report on Prince William and his bride-to-be. 1649: Catherine Helvin, in St Helens, Merseyside, writes: "I think the wedding should be in St Paul's Cathedral because the acoustics are better, it's bigger and people will have a better view of the ceremony.

The grand flight of steps will provide a spectacular background for the bride's train, especially if it's a long one." Send us your comments 1644: We'll be bringing you the happy couple's first interview here on the BBC News website and on the BBC News channel at 7pm - hope you'll stay with us for that. 1642: Clive Drake, in Colchester, UK, writes: "Frankly I couldn't care less. It will cost us millions in security alone and the chances of the marriage succeeding in the long run - if history of royal marriages over the past 25 years is anything to go by - is zero." Send us your comments 1638: Clarence House have just confirmed that William has given his fiancee the engagement ring that his late mother wore. It is an enormous 18 carat blue sapphire surrounded by smaller diamonds. We might get a glimpse of it on Kate's hand shortly when those much-awaited photos of the happy couple are released. 1635: Jon Idle, in Haywards Heath, writes: "Rather excited at the news but not sure why.

I've not been a particular royal fan over the last decade, but I just have a feeling that this is going to be rather special." Send us your comments 1630: William has given Kate his mother Diana's engagement ring, according to ITV's political editor Tom Bradby. 1629: Kassindra writes: "A royal wedding, is it the most interesting news of the day? I have a more interesting news than that. I made a cake today!" Join the debate 1625: A word on nuptial logistics from Downing Street. The PM's spokesman says a cross-government committee will be set up to look at issues including policing, security and the implications of visits from foreign heads of government to the royal wedding. 1622: Back in Washington, DC, Mary Babish, of Green Bay, Wisconsin, tells the BBC's Rajini Vaidyanathan: "Personally, I don't care, but I have a lot of friends who are so excited. They love the glamour, pageantry and the pomp. We don't have kings and queens but we have entertainers.

People in the US love any type of news like this." 1619: Aaron Prior tweets: "So why shouldn't we celebrate a royal wedding? They do more for the country than most of it's inhabitants!" 1615: The BBC's Rajini Vaidyanathan has been speaking to commuters at Union Station in Washington, DC, about the royal engagement. Rajini says: Almost everyone I spoke to didn't know much about Kate Middleton. Expect that to change. Princess Diana was conferred star status by the American media and press interest in her has remained high. 1611: Wedding dress speculation continues apace: Kate will wear a demure, high-necked, hand-embroidered, lace couture gown, according to Peta Hunt, of You and Your Wedding magazine. She also suggests the royal bride will pick a fishtail-style gown, rather than a large, full skirt. 1607: Earl Spencer, Prince William's uncle, said: "It's wonderful news. Very exciting.

My family are all thrilled for them both." 1604: Mike Hilton, in St Petersburg, Russia, writes: "As a pensioner and former member of the Royal Air Force, I think I am just as thrilled and delighted as David Cameron and His Royal Highness, Prince Charles - and lots of others who admire Prince William for what he is and has become since his mother's untimely death. I wish them true happiness and a wonderful long life together." Send us your comments 1600: There's been much talk over the years about Kate being a commoner. But Charles Kidd, from Debrett's Peerage and Baronetage, says their genealogy detective has discovered that Kate is actually a 15th cousin of Prince William. 1556: If Kate follows royal tradition, her wedding ring will be fashioned from a nugget of Welsh gold. The custom was started by the Queen Mother in 1923, and since then, the Queen, Princess Margaret, the Princess Royal and Diana, Princess of Wales, have all followed suit. The lucky nugget in question came from the Clogau St David's mine at Bontddu, in north Wales.

1553: Mark Denholm tweets: "Ok, why is everyone so excited about the royal wedding? It's a total irelevance." 1549: Kate's Middleton's parents, Michael and Carole, say they are "absolutely delighted" and "thrilled" at today's announcement. "We've got to know William very well and we think he is wonderful," they said. "They make a lovely couple, they're great to be with and we've had a lot of laughs together." 1544: GinaEvents tweets: "Everyone in the wedding community is too busy preparing their pitches for Kate and William to tweet!" 1540: On her way out of the Apollo theatre in London, where the musical Wicked is staged, the Duchess of Cornwall said: "It's the most brilliant news. I'm just so happy and so are they. It's wicked." 1536: For anyone just joining us, we're expecting the happy couple to take part in a photo call at St James's Palace at 4.45pm. After that, they'll be doing an interview together - stay tuned to the BBC News channel, BBC radio and right here on the website for more.

1533: Joe writes: "when I was in NY last year I believe I saw more news on the royal family in three weeks than I had for an entire year here in the UK." Join the debate 1527: Benedict Brogan, writing in the Telegraph blog says: "Mr Cameron will be forgiven then for hoping that a spring/summer royal wedding next year will be just what he needs to give him and his lot a timely political boost." 1523: Showbiz magazine Heat tells BBC Radio 5 live they're not that bothered about the engagement because they believe young people these days are more interested in Katie Waissel from the X Factor than Kate Middleton. 1519: In the Commons this afternoon, Shadow Chancellor Alan Johnson congratulated Wills and Kate, before adding to loud laughter: "If they need a photographer, I understand there's one available now." That quip was in reference to news that PM David Cameron had taken his personal photographer off the government payroll this morning, following criticism. 1516: Very helpfully, the Daily Mirror is offering 10 things you need to know about Kate Middleton. Number two?

"She allegedly caught his eye as she strutted down a runway clad in a naughty see-through dress at a university fashion show." 1511: Vanity Fair magazine chronicles how love blossomed between the prince and his fellow undergrad: Wills and the Real Girl 1508: Sun chief photographer Arthur Edwards tells the BBC that Kate naturally looks a million dollars, but the media should give her a chance to ease into her job, then they'll get fabulous pictures from her. 1504: Dave in Manchester writes: "Oh I'm so excited, I will decorate the house specially, take a day off!...NOT." Join the debate 1501: Just a bit of clarification on William and Kate's first interview later this afternoon. You'll be able to see it on the BBC News channel and here on the website we'll bring you some snippets as soon as we get them. 1457: Ingrid Seward, editor of Majesty magazine, says Kate differs from Diana, Princess of Wales, and Sarah, Duchess of York, in that she comes from a very happy, stable family background.

1454: You might remember that Kate and William actually split up in April 2007 - but it seems they've put that temporary blip firmly behind them. 1450: Royal historian Hugo Vickers predicts the wedding won't take place on the current bookie's favourite date of 13 August, as that's right in the middle of the Scottish holidays. He thinks it'll be in July - after the celebrations for Prince Philip's 90th birthday in June. 1447: Paul Jenkins, in Rugeley, Staffordshire, writes: "Angry. Who will pay for it? Millions will come from the taxpayer who already pays for these parasites to live in the lap of luxury whilst we work for a living." Send us your comments 1444: Journalist Paul Waugh initially suggested the government was burying bad news. He tweeted: "Amazing coincidence.

Two negative government stories - Guantanamo payoffs and vanity staff - dwarfed by Royal Wedding announcement." However, he then changed his mind: "Government sources point out the Prime Minister was told of Royal Wedding at 10.30am, whereas briefing on 'vanity' staff was at 10.10am. No burying of bad news." 1440: The Prince of Wales has given a low-key response to the announcement. While on a visit to his model village, Poundbury in Dorset, he barely broke step from his pre-arranged meet and greet to say he was "thrilled, obviously", joking: "They have been practising long enough." 1437: Much drooling anticipation of how Kate's sparkler will look. Diamond specialist Ernest Jones reckons the bride-to-be will have a white gold ring, because that's popular right now, with a "modern vintage classic look", which apparently means a large stone and accompanying smaller stones. Diana's wedding ring had a large sapphire surrounded by smaller diamonds, adds the jeweller.\r 1433: Will we all get an extra day off work next year to celebrate the royal nuptials?

Well, the marriage of William's parents, Charles and Diana, in 1981 was accompanied by a national holiday - but Downing Street has apparently been "non-committal" so far about the prospect. 1429: Natalya, in Kiev-city, Ukraine, writes: "It is a happy feeling every time when a royal wedding is announced. There is another chance to dream about a happy life." Send us your comments 1427: Further speculation about that wedding dress: most commentators seem to think Kate will choose a British designer, but not someone as high profile as Stella McCartney. And probably not George at Asda either. 1424: Mary Doll writes: "Does anyone really care about this wedding which will probably cost the country a fortune. And what bad news will be "slipped" in whilst the peasants are celebrating?" Join the debate 1421: The Guardian newspaper wants to hear from any ladies who are heartbroken that Wills is off the market. 1418: Wills and Kate will give their first interview together to ITV News's political editor Tom Bradby, an old friend of the Prince, which will be broadcast at 7pm.

1415: Cathy Smith in London writes: "The prospect of a very, very costly royal wedding next year feels out of step and out of kilter with how we are all expected to live now. If we are truly "all in this together" how about the Windsors fund the marriage themselves? Then the profits generated from the extra tourism might actually boost UK coffers." Have Your Say 1411: If you're just joining the Category Five hurricane of rolling news coverage for William and Kate's engagement, we're expecting a photocall with the happy couple at St James's Palace at 4.45pm. 1408: As well as offering congratulations, the couple's alma mater, the University of St Andrews, has taken some of the credit for their romance. "St Andrews is a special place - one in 10 of our students meet their future partner here, and our title as Britain's top match-making university signifies so much that is good about this community." To see how they went from students to sweethearts, check out our feature.

1404: In Kate's home village of Bucklebury, Berkshire, there's a police car parked at the top of the private drive which leads to the Middleton home to keep prying reporters at bay. The family will have to get used to this - if they haven't already that is. 1400: The Daily Mail is wondering whether William's fiancee is the new People's Princess - it considers \r How confident Kate Middleton compares to 'Shy Di'. 1357: Parisian Pen writes: "Can't the happy couple wait a year? Their wedding would make a great opening ceremony for the 2012 Olympics." Have Your Say 1354: Prince William has just returned from a visit to UK troops in Afghanistan. Regimental Sergeant Major Mark Ellis met him - although he didn't have an inkling of the announcement to come. "It's great news," he tells the BBC. Asked if he's got any advice for the prince, he adds: "Keep you own bank account." 1350: First Minister of Wales Carwyn Jones has added his congratulations to those flooding in. He says he's glad the couple plan to stay in north Wales after tying the knot.

1347: Anoymous reporter Fleet Street fox tweets: "Please let Harry be in charge of the stag do. Think of the pictures!" 1344: The Daily Telegraph notes that Kate, whose birth name is Catherine Elizabeth, will one day become the country's sixth Queen Catherine, though she will hope to avoid the unfortunate and sometimes macabre fates of almost all of her predecessors. 1340: Some trivia about the couple: Kate had a teenage crush on the prince, adorning her wall with a poster of him in polo gear long before she had met him. Wills is said to call Kate "Babykins", while he is apparently her "Big Willie". Hmm! 1336: Jules Knight, who was a friend of the couple at university, describes how they fell in love. "I think he just took a shine to her really. They spent a lot of time together and were very good friends for a long time and I think then that blossomed into something more. And it's not surprising really because Kate's a fantastic girl." 1332: Sue Holmes in Brisbane, Australia writes: "I feel sorry for him. He has had no chance to try for anyone else.

She just wants to be Queen and that's the bottom line. Poor William." Have Your Say 1330: The American TV network CNN is noting that this is a very modern royal wedding, with Clarence House announcing the match on Twitter, and a similar announcement appearing on the Queen's new Facebook page soon afterwards. 1325: There'll be celebrations tonight in Kate's home village of Bucklebury in Berkshire, where her parents, businessman Michael and former air hostess Carole, are expected to make a statement to media later. 1322: Bookmakers are punting 13 August next year as a favourite date for this wedding, at odds of 3-1. 1319: Emma in Nottingham writes: "It really is great news, not only for the happy couple but as a whole for the country to celebrate with street parties. Hopefully this will be an oppurtunity for communities to unite and be proud of the monarchy and all the glory it represents. Let the taxpayer pay for it, look how much revenue the monarchy brings each year in money through tourism." Have Your Say 1315: Sherri Korpi tweets: "Congratulations to Prince William and Kate Middleton on their engagement!

It will be a beautiful royal wedding!" 1312: Clarence House has said that after the marriage the royal couple will continue to live in North Wales. William is currently based at RAF Valley on Anglesey where he flies Sea King search and rescue helicopters. 1309: Royal-watchers are wondering whether the happy couple will say much at this afternoon's expected photocall. When William's parents were asked if they were in love as they announced their engagement in 1981, Prince Charles said they were, but added: "Whatever love means". Wills will want to avoid any similar awkward moments today. 1306: Hayley Kennedy, in Cheshire, writes: "What fantastic news at a time when so many people are down in the dumps as a result of the trends of recent times. Hopefully this news will make people consider the merits of a traditional courtship and the union of marriage as something precious and valuable." Have Your Say 1303: James Whittaker, who's reported on the royal family since the 1960s, says life as a princess will be "very very demanding". "We do expect a lot of these people," he says.

"We expected so much of Diana and it'll be exactly the same with Kate. It's going to be very tough for her." 1300: Jane O'Donnell tweets: "Looking forward to the happy couple noting the effects of the recession on the country and making it low key and responsible" 1258: Scotland's First Minister Alex Salmond says William and Kate's romance was "a match made in St Andrews" - where they attended university - and he hopes everyone in Scotland will join him in wishing them well. 1255: BBC East Africa correspondent Will Ross says: Prince William popped the question at a secluded game reserve in the foothills of Mount Kenya, where he has stayed several times before. He first visited the reserve's luxury lodge with his ex-girlfriend, Jessica Craig, whose parents own it. He spent part of his gap year in Kenya and is extremely fond of Africa, so perhaps it's no surprise that this is where the couple became engaged. 1252: We understand the happy couple will be holding a photocall at St James's Palace this afternoon.

1250: Sophie, Countess of Wessex, wife of Prince Edward, tells the BBC: "I think it's absolutely thrilling, couldn't be more excited? we wish them all the love and luck in the world." 1248: Robert Rodriguez, from Saffron Walden, Essex, writes: "I am very happy to hear of the upcoming marriage of Prince William and Kate Middleton. I was present at Waterloo Station for his parents' arrival en route to their honeymoon. It seems many, many years ago! The only sadness is that his mother wont be there to see him at such a special time in his life. May they both be very happy together." Have Your Say 1245: The PM says he got wind of the news during a cabinet meeting this morning. It was met with "a great cheer" and "banging of the table" from fellow ministers, he says. Mr Cameron also tells reporters he's spoken personally to William in the last few minutes and the prince sounded very excited. 1243: David Cameron is speaking in Downing Street. He says "it's great to have some unadulterated good news" for the country the celebrate.

He says he slept overnight on the Mall ahead of Diana and Charles' wedding. 1241: The Twittersphere seems in agreement that Wills won't opt for a stag night in Blackpool with Rooney and Gazza. 1239: Michelle Holley, of Dream Wedding Gowns, based near Kate's home village, says she thinks the bride should wear a column-shaped dress in Italian lace, with a three-quarter length jacket and tiny sleeves. She predicts the gown will become a monster trend-setter. 1236: Lisa, from Inverclyde, writes: "I think it's fabulous news and wish them all the love and luck in the world for a long and happy future together. I also think it's good for Britain as it's a momentous happy occasion that the whole country will be able to share in and be proud of." Have Your Say 1234: Labour leader Ed Miliband has sent his congratulations to the couple, adding: "The whole country will be wishing them every happiness." 1232: Underlining what a truly global story this is, ABC News' breakfast show, Good Morning America, just began their programme with a trumpet fanfare to announce the royal wedding.

1230: Want to know more about the future Princess Catherine? Check out our profile. 1228: Steve Dickinson, from Peterborough, writes: "I really do wish them both well, but I hope the taxpayer does not pay one penny towards it!" Have Your Say 1226: Daily Express royal correspondent Richard Palmer says life will never be the same for Wills and Kate again, and that interest in the couple will only intensify. He reckons Kate has handled things pretty well up until now, despite the huge focus on her. He believes the Palace will provide her with training on how to speak and comport herself in public. 1224: Prime Minister David Cameron is due to speak about the royal engagement within the next few minutes. Stay tuned. 1222: Where will the wedding take place, we wonder. Well, St Paul's Cathedral was the venue of choice for Prince Charles and Princess Diana, but Westminster Abbey was the venue for both the Queen and the Queen Mother. Any other suggestions? 1220: Republic, a campaign group which wants the British monarchy to be abolished, says it hopes the royals don't use the wedding as a PR exercise.

1218: Denise Milden, in Maidenhead, writes: "Many many congratulations to the happy couple. Something wonderful to look forward to in 2011, a royal wedding. I'm so pleased for them both." Have Your Say 1216: Ruth in Cape Town, South Africa writes: "Really tremendous news, good luck and best wishes to them both." Have Your Say 1214: Not everyone is delighted though, it seems. The BBC's Laura Kuenssberg, at Westminster, says some Labour MPs are raising their eyebrows at the timing of the announcement, on the day PM David Cameron reversed a decision to employ a personal photographer and camerawoman at the taxpayers' expense; and when it emerged that men who accused British security forces of colluding in their torture were to get millions in compensation from the UK. 1212: William, it seems, stuck to tradition. We're told he asked Kate's father for permission before popping the question. 1210: Like any newly engaged couple, the details of the big day are apparently still to be ironed out, but Clarence House says the wedding will take place in spring or summer 2011.

1206: More congratulations - Prime Minister David Cameron's spokesman says he's "delighted" too and sends his best wishes to the couple. That sentiment is echoed by Deputy PM Nick Clegg, who says he's "thrilled". 1157: The Queen says she is "absolutely delighted" at the news. 1155: William and Kate began dating when they were both students at St Andrew's University. They graduated in the same ceremony in 2005. 1150: The couple, both 28, got engaged during a private holiday in October, Clarence House said. 1145: Clarence House has announced that Prince William is to marry Kate Middleton next year. Live video has now finished Live video has now finished.

Key points Prince William is to marry Kate Middleton in spring or summer next year He gave her his mother Diana's engagement ring and told the media they were were both "very, very happy" Kate said joining the royal family was a "daunting prospect", but she was looking forward to it Congratulations have poured in from public figures including the Queen and David Cameron Reporter: Lucy Wilkins The Wicked Bible: the perfect gift for collectors, but not for William and Kate | Books | The Guardian Rick Gekoski: Finger on the page The Wicked Bible: the perfect gift for collectors, but not for William and Kate Royal printers were responsible in 1631 for one of the most famous 'misprints' in literary history, wickedly twisting the words of the Seventh Commandment. The results are a collector's item Not lost for words ... Prince William and Kate Middleton announce their engagement – the Duchess of Cornwall described it as 'wicked'.

Photograph: Samir Hussein/WireImage Rick Gekoski: Finger on the page The Wicked Bible: the perfect gift for collectors, but not for William and Kate Royal printers were responsible in 1631 for one of the most famous 'misprints' in literary history, wickedly twisting the words of the Seventh Commandment. The results are a collector's item Share on Messenger Close Responding to the news of the engagement of Prince William and his Kate, Camilla (Duchess of Cornwall) responded with delight: "It's wicked!" she said . Curiously – Jungians say synchronistically – I was at the same time as hearing this happy news, reading Anne Tyler's The Tin Can Tree, which quotes a review by John Updike, opining that she is "wickedly" good. I like being surrounded by all this wickedness, it reminds me of when my kids were younger, and "wicked" was their favourite term of approbation, meaning what my generation meant by "cool!" In fact the term rather infiltrated my vocabulary – I dodged "awesome!" – and I still use it occasionally, though it makes me slightly embarrassed, listening to myself.

Presumably inversion in the meaning of "wicked" ironically captures the delights that sinfulness can encompass. It may be wicked to eat too much ice cream, or to seduce the farmer's son or daughter, because it is so tempting, so delightful. In this sense, wicked means dangerously pleasurable. At the same time that this was happening – wait for it: how spooky is this? – I was offered a rare book which, while well out of field for me, was extremely enticing. It is a Bible, published in 1631 by Barker and Lucas, the royal printers, with one of the most famous misprints (if it is that) in the whole of literature. In its citation of the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:14) we have as Number Seven: "THOU SHALT COMMIT ADULTERY." Given the number of the faithful who believe in a literal interpretation of the holy word, this new injunction was likely to cause the odd misunderstanding. ("I am not repentant, my dear, I am merely obeying God's will.") Though the mistake is frequently referred to as a compositor's error, it appears unlikely to have been simply an oversight; there seems something purposive about it.

Whether this was due to some radical naughtiness, or had a vengeful aspect, it would have to have been the work of some youthful and itinerant printer, who could set the offending type, and hightail it out of town. (Do I feel a short story coming on?). King Charles I, apprised of the error by the Bishop of London, summoned the frightened and mortified printers to the Star Chamber, revoked their licence, and fined them £300 – some £35,000 in today's money. The Archbishop of Canterbury was scandalised and, in those Puritan times, unwilling or unable to conceive of the mistake as a hoax. He blamed the whole sad affair on shoddy standards in the industry: "I knew the tyme when great care was had about printing, the Bibles especially, good compositors and the best correctors were gotten being grave and learned men, the paper and the letter rare, and faire every way of the beste, but now the paper is nought, the composers boyes, and the correctors unlearned." The book soon became known as The Wicked Bible.

All stocks (a thousand were printed) were destroyed, and sold copies that could be traced were recalled. But months had passed since the Bible was first offered for sale, and the figure of "eleven" surviving copies cited on Wickedpedia is certainly too low. What is clear is that, as assiduously as contemporary copies were hunted down for destruction, copies are now sought enthusiastically for preservation. What my book's owner wanted to know, of course, was how much it might be worth? He was greatly encouraged by an online reference to an antiquarian firm called Greatsite.com ("World's Largest Dealer of Rare and Antique Bibles") offering a copy of the book for $89,500 (£55,000). Their description of the item is breathlessly excited: "an unspeakably rare collector's item ... only a handful escaped destruction, making them the rarest of the rare. This is the only one for sale in the world." When I emailed them, one John Lawton Jeffcoat III, who sounds more like an evangelist than a dealer, told me that their book had sold, and immediately been replaced by "an even better, totally original" copy, priced at $99,500.

The rarest of the rare? How does one value such a book, given the (relative) scarcity of copies? A dealer's first resource is the database of auction records, which locates five copies sold at auction since 1979. But such data is notoriously difficult to interpret, especially when you can't actually examine the individual copies. The key criteria are these: is the copy complete? Is it in a binding of the period? Were the pages trimmed before binding? What else might it be bound with (it was common to bind religious material such as Books of Common Prayer together with Bibles)? Is it in good condition? Depending on the answers to these questions, the auctioned copies fell within a range of value from as low as $240 in 1979 (another in 1991 at $380) – both in poor condition and lacking some pages – to a top price of $27,000 in 1996, in a contemporary binding but lacking some of the ancillary genealogies and the map. Well, that is some 15 years since the last copy at auction, and you can see where the Greatsite.com dealers are coming from.

But their price is high-end retail, and my collector's copy, if in similar condition, is only likely to be worth, say, half that. Unless, of course, you can locate a private buyer, and sell it to them more expensively. Perhaps someone might wish to give it as a ... ? No, too cruel. Not a royal wedding present, though Prince William's parents obeyed the commandment of the Wicked Bible faithfully enough. The Prince of Wales is after all, our future king, and defender of the faith of the Church of England (or as he revised the phrase, "defender of faith") and would not be amused. He surely wouldn't wish to encourage wicked behaviour, whatever his Camilla might have meant. The Duchess of Cornwall on 'wicked' engagement news - BBC News BBC News Media playback is unsupported on your device The Duchess of Cornwall on 'wicked' engagement news 16 November 2010 Last updated at 19:16 GMT Prince William and his girlfriend, Kate Middleton, are to marry next year after they became engaged last month while on holiday in Kenya.

Prince William's stepmother, The Duchess of Cornwall, gave her reaction as she left a theatre in London where the musical Wicked is playing.

Question: Who described the news of the engagement of Prince William and Kate Middleton as 'wicked'?
Answer: Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall