William pops the question

GET ready for a spectacular royal wedding next year, after Prince William and his long-term girlfriend Kate Middleton confirmed their engagement this week.

HAPPY COUPLE: Prince William and Kate Middleton

William popped the question to Middleton, his on-off partner for the past seven years on a romantic holiday in Kenya last month.  On Tuesday morning at St. James Palace, they showed off Kate’s ring – which is the same wedding ring that William’s father, Prince Charles gave to Lady Diana Spencer nearly 30 years ago.  William has insisted that the blue and sapphire ring on Kate’s finger is his way of making sure that his late mother didn’t miss out on the special occasion.

They will get married next year, though no venue or date has yet been set.  Speculation within the Royal media experts are that the ceremony will probably take place around August next year.  In various TV interviews, with The One Show, Five News and ITN, William told the media of his obsession of keeping the cherished ring in sight whilst on holiday; “I literally would not let it go.  Everywhere I went, I was keeping hold of it because I knew . . . if it disappeared – I would be in a lot of trouble.”

William and Kate first met each other back in 2001, when they were students at the University of St. Andrews.  Within a year of first meeting each other, there was intense speculation about the pair being an item.  Until the news broke, it is believed that only Miss. Middleton’s mother and father knew about the engagement along with the happy couple.  The reception to the news, from both families, plus the Prime Minister David Cameron seems to have been very encouraging.  The slightly longer wait for the announcement has come because of the recent tragic passing of Kate’s grandfather, Peter Middleton.

Kate Middleton has attempted to keep a very discreet profile in recent times, but she has now been thrown completely into the public spotlight.  It is something that the shy new-wife-to be of the Prince, second in line to the throne has to deal with rather quickly.  The wedding is bound to be really special and us Brits know when to put on a good party and a top-class wedding.

Many congratulations to William and Kate on their engagement . . . I wish both only good times ahead.

REACTION FROM THOSE CLOSEST TO THE COUPLE;

The Queen; “It is brilliant news.  It has taken them a long time.”

Prince Charles; “I am absolutely thrilled of the news this morning.  They have been practising long enough.”

Prince Harry; “I am delighted that my brother has popped the question!  It means I get a sister, which I have always wanted.”

David Cameron; “It is incredibly exciting news and I’m sure the whole country will want to pass their very best wishes to the happy couple, and wish them an incredibly happy and long life together.”

Earl Spencer (brother of Princess Diana); “It’s wonderful news, very exciting.  My family are thrilled for them both.”