London: Kate Middleton was today admitted to hospital and is in the early stages of labour, a palace official said. The 31-year-old Duchess of Cambridge travelled by car with William from the Kensington Palace to St Mary’s in Paddington, west London.

“The notification has gone out that she is in the early stages of labour after being admitted to the Lindo wing this morning,” the Kensington Palace official said.

The couple do not know the gender of their first child, who will be third in line to the throne.

The world’s press have been camped outside St Mary’s for days in anticipation of the birth.

Mail online reports that Kate is planning to have a natural birth. The Duchess is being attended by a top medical team. The hospital's Lindo Wing is a private obstetric unit, with prices starting under £5,000 for a normal delivery package over 24 hours, with consultants' fees around £6,000 extra depending on the care required.

The Queen is at Windsor Castle today and is being kept informed about Kate's condition. Prince Charles is on a two day visit to Yorkshire and told crowds this morning there was 'no news yet' from St Mary's Hospital.

Prime Minister David Cameron said today it was a 'very exciting occasion' and whole country is 'hoping for the best'.

The Archbishop of Canterbury, Rev Justin Welby, tweeted: 'My thoughts and prayers are with Kate and the whole family on this enormously special day. 'Well wishers converged on Buckingham Palace today as news of the imminent royal arrival was flashed around the world.In the hottest day of the year , tourists and royal fans clamoured to be the first to witness the traditional announcement when it is posted at the gates