Prince William to marry Kate Middleton in 2011

PRINCE WILLIAM is to marry Kate Middleton next year, Clarence House said today.

William, second in line to the throne, will marry in the year which would have marked the 30th anniversary of his parents' wedding.

The couple, who are both 28, got engaged during a private holiday in Kenya last month, Clarence House has confirmed.

A date for the wedding has not yet been set.

The statement from 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."

William carried out some of his training at RAF Shawbury, alongside his brother Harry. Prime Minister David Cameron's spokeswoman said he was "delighted" and sent the couple his very best.

The Prime Minister was informed of the royal engagement during the Cabinet's meeting this morning.

His spokesman said: "The office took the call during Cabinet. The Prime Minister relayed the news to the Cabinet."

Happiness

Labour leader Ed Miliband said also said he was also delighted for Prince William and Kate Middleton.

"The whole country will be wishing them every happiness," he said.

Prince William and Kate Middleton both started out on the same history of art course at St Andrews in 2001, although William later switched to geography. For several years, they were flatmates, sharing accommodation with friends.

Miss Middleton, who is six months older than William, was credited with persuading the prince to stay on as he struggled to adjust to university life during his first year.

They graduated in the same ceremony from St Andrews in 2005 and their families joined them for a celebratory lunch.

The couple's relationship was exposed in 2005 when they were photographed together on the Swiss ski slopes of Klosters.

Miss Middleton is the eldest child of businessman Michael Middleton and former air hostess Carole.

She was raised in a modern five-bedroom detached house in the Berkshire village of Bucklebury and her family, who are self-made millionaires, run a mail order toy and party goods company.