Kate Middleton is pregnant, Palace officials say

St. James Palace has confirmed that Prince William and Kate Middleton are expecting their first child.

"Their Royal Highnesses the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are very pleased to announce that the Duchess of Cambridge is expecting a baby," the palace revealed in a statement.

The palace confirmed that Middleton was "in the very early stages" of her pregnancy, and was admitted to King Edward VII Hospital in London due to an acute form of morning sickness.

William is second in line to the throne after his father, Prince Charles. William and Kate's first child stands an excellent chance of becoming monarch one day.

More to come ...