Kate Middleton was today admitted to St Mary's Hospital in London in the early stages of labour.
The 33-year-old Duchess of Cambridge was admitted to the Lindo Wing of St Mary's Hospital, where her first baby Prince George was born in July 2013.
The Duchess was driven to the hospital from her London home, Kensington Palace, a mile and a half away, a statement from the palace said.
Kate is believed to be nearly a week overdue, leaving royal fans camped out near the hospital for days in wait of the new baby.
Prince William will be present for the birth in the hospital's private Lindo Wing.
Royal protection officers, who carry concealed weapons at all times, were already stationed at the Lindo Wing in anticipation of Queen Elizabeth II's newest great grandchild.
Kate and William have not found out if they are having a boy or girl but bookies are favouring a girl named Princess Alice.
The birth of Prince William and Kate Middleton's second child will be announced to the world on Twitter.
Apart from the Twitter announcement, details of the birth -- including, most importantly, the sex of the newborn -- will be posted on an easel behind the gates of Buckingham Palace, symbolising the mix of modernity and tradition.
