Royal baby update: The world is waiting to meet the new little prince

The little prince was born at 4.24pm, at St Mary’s Hospital in Paddington. He weighed 8lbs 6oz and has yet to be named.

It is unclear how long the baby will remain in hospital, but he is expected to be introduced to the world on the steps of the hospital in the same way his dad, Prince William, was by Prince Charles and Princess Diana 31 years ago.

The Queen and Prince Philip are said to be ‘delighted’ at the news of the new arrival.

Prince Charles has also issued a statement saying he is ‘overjoyed’ to be a grandfather.

He said: “Both my wife and I are overjoyed at the arrival of my first grandchild.

“It is an incredibly special moment for William and Catherine and we are so thrilled for them on the birth of their baby boy.

“Grandparenthood is a unique moment in anyone’s life, as countless kind people have told me in recent months, so I am enormously proud and happy to be a grandfather for the first time and we are eagerly looking forward to seeing the baby in the near future.”

The Royal doctor was heard to say ‘wonderful baby, beautiful baby’ and the Duke of Cambridge, who was present for the birth, said: “We couldn’t be happier.”

The baby boy will be third in line to the throne.

In a statement the palace said mother and baby were doing well. They remained in hospital over night.

News of the birth came via email in a break with tradition. The official notification is now on display on the traditional, ornate easel at Buckingham Palace.

The Duchess had been in labour since early yesterday morning and arrived at the hospital by car with no police guard.

The birth will be marked later with a 41-gun salute and the ringing of Westminster Abbey’s bells.